United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned the recent Houthi attacks on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia, labeling the violence as unacceptable. Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York, Guterres emphasized the dire humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict in Yemen, especially around the city of Taiz, where fighting has led to significant civilian suffering and regional instability. He noted that the conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of people and increased humanitarian needs, urging restraint and a renewed political process to resolve the crisis.
Guterres highlighted that the UN special envoy is actively engaging with relevant parties to maintain opportunities for dialogue and promote a peaceful resolution. He also raised concerns about the broader implications of global conflicts, comparing the situation to an “El Niño of war,” where fighting in one region can trigger economic disruptions worldwide. These disruptions can affect energy markets, shipping routes, supply chains, and financial systems, leading to higher costs for food, fuel, and borrowing, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable countries.
The UN chief stressed that these economic pressures exacerbate existing global inequalities, forcing poorer households to make difficult choices and leaving debt-burdened nations with fewer resources for essential services like healthcare, education, and development. He condemned attacks on civilians and infrastructure in various conflict zones, including the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan, underscoring the importance of protecting homes, hospitals, schools, airports, and energy facilities under international humanitarian law.
Addressing the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, Guterres expressed concern about restrictions on humanitarian assistance entering Gaza and attacks on Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank. He called for increased humanitarian support and urged donors to contribute to a $450 million funding appeal to assist people in Gaza and the West Bank over the next six months. The UN chief reiterated the necessity of a credible political process to end the Israeli occupation and achieve a two-state solution.
Guterres announced his upcoming visit to Egypt, where he intends to focus on preventing further escalation, protecting civilians, and creating opportunities for diplomacy and peace. His remarks came amid reports of intensified Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting airports, raising concerns about civilian safety and further instability in the region.