Amid rising tensions in West Asia, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has condemned recent missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels against Saudi Arabia and attacks targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

Following an emergency meeting on Friday, Security Council members expressed concern over the worsening security situation in Yemen and warned that continued escalation could threaten regional stability and international peace and security.

Saudi Arabia Missile Attacks

The UNSC said Houthi forces had launched missile attacks against Saudi Arabia since July 13. The Council also condemned attacks on commercial vessels since July 22.

Members of the Security Council urged the Houthis to avoid further escalation and called for existing dialogue channels to be used to address concerns and reduce tensions.

The attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea have raised fresh concerns over maritime security and international trade. The waterway is a major route for global shipping, and prolonged instability could disrupt regional as well as international commerce.

Support for Yemen’s Sovereignty

The Security Council reaffirmed its strong commitment to Yemen's sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity.

The Council stressed that Yemen's sovereignty over its territory and airspace must be respected. It also called on all parties to comply with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The statement comes amid growing concerns over military activity and competing claims of authority in Yemen.

Concern Over Airport Landings

The UNSC also condemned what it described as unauthorised aircraft landings at Yemeni airports.

According to the Council, aircraft landed at Sana'a International Airport on July 3 and Hudaydah Airport on July 13without permission or clearance from the Yemeni government.

The Security Council said such landings violated international civil aviation rules.

It emphasised that flights operating to Yemeni airports should be coordinated with the Yemeni government and receive prior authorisation.

Focus on Humanitarian Access

The Council also highlighted the need for safe, secure and sustainable air access to Yemen for humanitarian and civilian purposes.

It said humanitarian and civilian flights should be coordinated with the Yemeni government and conducted in accordance with international law and applicable civil aviation regulations.

The UNSC stressed that efforts to address Yemen's security crisis should also take into account the needs of civilians and humanitarian organisations.

Reference to Resolution 2216

The Security Council reminded all parties of their obligations under international law and relevant UN resolutions, including Resolution 2216, adopted in 2015.

The resolution includes restrictions on the supply, sale or transfer of arms and related military assistance to individuals and entities designated by the Security Council's 2140 Sanctions Committee, including the Houthis.

The Council urged all sides to comply with the existing sanctions framework and avoid actions that could further destabilise Yemen.

UN Peace Efforts

The UNSC also reiterated its support for UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg and his efforts to find a political solution to the conflict.

The Council backed a negotiated, inclusive and Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political settlement, based on agreed references and relevant Security Council resolutions.

The latest developments have heightened concerns over regional security and freedom of navigation, particularly around the Red Sea.

The Security Council urged restraint and called on the Houthis and other concerned parties to avoid further escalation and use dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.

The Council warned that continued military escalation could undermine ongoing peace efforts in Yemen and create wider security risks across the region.