UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations has expressed growing concern over escalating tensions across the Middle East, warning that renewed hostilities and threats to maritime security in the Red Sea could disrupt global trade, humanitarian operations and energy supplies.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric called for an immediate reduction in hostilities, stressing that continued escalation could have serious humanitarian and economic consequences across the region.
Dujarric urged all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, water facilities and other essential services, and to comply with international humanitarian law by minimizing harm to civilians.
The UN also voiced concern over recent threats by Yemen’s Houthi movement against Saudi Arabia and freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. Dujarric warned that any disruption to one of the world’s busiest shipping routes could further strain international trade, humanitarian aid deliveries, peacekeeping logistics and global energy markets.
He noted that the global economy is already experiencing the effects of instability around the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that additional disruptions in the Red Sea could intensify pressure on international commerce.
The comments came after Saudi Arabia reported intercepting ballistic missiles launched by Houthi forces targeting its southern region. The incident followed claims by Yemen’s Defense Ministry that government forces had carried out strikes on the runway at Sanaa airport after accusing the Houthis of blocking Yemeni civilian flights while permitting an Iranian aircraft to land.
The latest developments come as military tensions between the United States and Iran continue to fuel instability across the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
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