On Third Anniversary of Yemen Conflict, Secretary-General Strongly Condemns Houthi Missile Launch into Saudi Arabia, Calls for Restraint

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary‑General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General strongly condemns the launch late yesterday of a series of missiles claimed by the Houthis towards cities in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, as he does consistently with all attacks against civilians.

Today marks the third anniversary of the conflict in Yemen.  The Secretary-General calls for restraint amid mounting tensions and stresses that military escalation is not the solution.  He urges all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure against attack.

After his visit to Riyadh, the Special Envoy is in Sana’a this week to meet with various Yemeni parties.  The Secretary-General emphasises that a negotiated political settlement through inclusive intra-Yemeni dialogue is the only way to end the conflict and address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.