The United Nations chief has expressed deep concern over the recent deadly Israeli strike on Yemen’s airport. The escalating hostilities between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Israel have raised international alarm, with the IDF targeting various locations, including the airport in Sana’a. This strike, which occurred while the head of the World Health Organization was preparing to board a plane, has left at least six people dead.
UN Condemnation and Concern
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the growing tension between Yemen and Israel, particularly highlighting the Israeli airstrikes on Sana’a international airport, Red Sea ports, and power stations. These actions are viewed as especially alarming, posing threats to civilians, regional stability, and freedom of maritime navigation.
A spokesperson for Guterres emphasized the need to halt the escalating violence and protect the lives of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of this conflict.
Personal Experience Amidst Chaos
The head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, shared a harrowing personal account of the attack on the airport. He revealed that he was moments away from boarding a plane when the airstrike hit, injuring a crew member and claiming the lives of two individuals. The airport infrastructure suffered significant damage, delaying their departure until repairs are completed.
Tedros had been in Yemen on a humanitarian mission to negotiate the release of detained UN staff and assess the dire humanitarian situation in the region. Despite the chaos, he expressed relief that he and his colleagues were safe, extending heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
Israeli Response and Ongoing Conflict
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the airstrikes as necessary measures against the Houthi movement, which they view as a terrorist arm of Iran’s influence. Netanyahu vowed to continue targeting Houthi positions until their objectives are achieved.
The Houthis, on the other hand, have vowed to retaliate swiftly, signaling a potential escalation of violence in the region. International shipping routes have already been disrupted by previous attacks, leading to concerns about global inflation and economic repercussions.
The UN Security Council is scheduled to convene to address the recent Houthi attacks, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for diplomatic intervention to prevent further bloodshed.
As tensions continue to rise and both sides remain steadfast in their positions, the international community watches with bated breath, hoping for a swift resolution to the conflict before more lives are lost.
