UNSC Denounces Houthi Strikes on Saudi Arabia, Reaffirms Riyadh’s Self-Defence Rights

The UN Security Council has condemned the continued Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and reiterated Riyadh’s right to defend itself under international law amid a renewed escalation in the Yemen conflict.

In a statement released on Friday, council members condemned what they described as ongoing Houthi attacks against Saudi territory, including strikes affecting civilian areas and energy infrastructure. The attacks have reportedly resulted in civilian injuries, including injuries to women and children.

Security Council Affirms Riyadh’s Right to Self-Defence

The council expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and recognised its inherent right to self-defence in accordance with international law.

Members also raised concerns over Houthi attacks and threats against commercial shipping in the Red Sea and around the Bab al-Mandab Strait. They called on the group to respect international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and to ensure freedom of navigation.

The council urged practical cooperation with Yemen’s government to enforce the arms embargo imposed on the Houthis under Resolution 2216. It called for measures to prevent the group from securing weapons, military training or financial assistance that could enable further attacks.

UN Raises Alarm Over Yemen Displacement

The Security Council also highlighted the worsening humanitarian situation in Yemen. The United Nations estimates that at least 125,000 people have been displaced across the country since the beginning of September amid the Houthi offensive.

Council members additionally renewed their demand for the immediate and unconditional release of detainees held by the Houthis. The group is holding 73 UN personnel along with workers associated with non-governmental and civil society organisations, according to the statement.

Conflict Raises Wider Regional Concerns

The council warned that the latest escalation could have consequences beyond Yemen and Saudi Arabia. It said continued attacks on Saudi territory, threats to vessels in the Red Sea and developments around the strategically important Bab al-Mandab Strait could contribute to a wider conflict.

Members also warned that the situation could undermine maritime security, disrupt international trade and complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace in Yemen. The Security Council reaffirmed its backing for UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg’s efforts to facilitate a Yemeni-led political settlement.

Saudi Arabia Faces Intensifying Attacks

The statement comes as Saudi Arabia reports an increase in Houthi attacks following the collapse of a prolonged truce in Yemen in July. According to the Saudi-led military coalition, a major barrage on September 8 injured 73 people and struck Aramco energy infrastructure close to the Yemeni border.

Further attacks were reported in Khamis Mushait, Abha, Jazan and Najran in the days that followed.

Another attack on September 14 reportedly left 13 civilians injured and damaged residential properties and vehicles. The latest developments have heightened concerns over the security of Saudi civilian and energy infrastructure, the safety of commercial shipping in the Red Sea and the possibility of further regional escalation.