The European Union renewed its firm support for the UN-led peace efforts in Yemen.

In a statement during an open discussion in the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, he urged all parties, especially the Houthis, to exercise restraint, reduce tensions, and engage constructively and meaningfully with UN Special Envoy Grundberg in order to achieve lasting peace and implement the roadmap United Nations .

He reiterated his continued support for the Yemeni government in its efforts to move forward with reforms and progress towards stability in the country.

He said he condemns the destabilizing actions throughout the Middle East by Iran and its proxies, including through armed groups.

He also condemned the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, as they contribute to regional escalation and constitute a serious threat to security, international trade, freedom of navigation, as well as the environment.

He stressed that he was deeply concerned about the recent escalation, and called for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure at all times in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The European Union renewed its condemnation of the Houthis’ arrest of United Nations employees and workers in non-governmental organizations and diplomatic missions in Yemen and called on the group to immediately and unconditionally release all detainees.

He said that he continues to call on the Houthis to stop attacks in the Red Sea and the Middle East and North Africa region and to return to the UN-led peace process.