UN Concerned by Intensifying Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia

The United Nations is concerned about an increase in attacks by the Houthi group targeting civilian and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Monday (19 October).

“We are also concerned about the continued Houthi attacks across Saudi Arabia, including attacks affecting civilian and energy infrastructure,” Dujarric said at a press conference.

He said the UN was also deeply concerned about the intensity of the conflict on various front lines, particularly near the city of Taiz.

“We urge all parties to engage constructively with the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, to find a path towards inclusive dialogue and a negotiated political settlement,” Dujarric added.

The situation in Yemen escalated in mid-July when Saudi-backed pro-government forces attacked Sanaa airport as a plane from Iran carrying a delegation of Houthi leaders was landing.

The Houthis subsequently blamed Riyadh for the attack and declared war on the kingdom, while also announcing a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia.

Since then, the Houthis have taken control of the entire western coast of the Red Sea and cities near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, while Yemen’s internationally recognised government has launched an operation to retake the capital, Sanaa, from the group.