Brussels: The Council of the European Union expressed grave concern over what it described as the "deterioration" in the security, economic, and humanitarian situation in Yemen.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the EU condemned the indiscriminate attacks launched by the Houthis against international maritime navigation in the Red Sea. The EU highlighted that such attacks threaten regional peace and stability, disrupt global trade and freedom of navigation, and further exacerbate Yemen's severe humanitarian crisis.
In response to these threats, the EU reiterated its support for its ongoing defensive maritime operation "ASPIDES" in the Red Sea, which aims to protect vessels and enhance maritime security in the region. The EU emphasized the need for renewed momentum in the peace process in Yemen and reaffirmed its commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the country, as well as its full support for UN-led mediation and regional initiatives aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire.
The EU also expressed its continued support for the internationally recognized Government of Yemen and the Presidential Leadership Council in their efforts to implement reforms, promote good governance, combat corruption, and address the country's critical economic decline. Furthermore, the EU and its member states committed to continuing humanitarian aid to Yemen through the "Team Europe" approach, while advocating for the protection of human rights and respect for international humanitarian law.
The EU concluded by condemning the proliferation of arms benefiting the Houthis and other non-state actors in the region, urging external parties to halt their support and weapons deliveries to the Houthis and to contribute to de-escalation efforts.