The United Nations has once again urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation following renewed hostilities between Israeli forces and Yemen’s Houthi movement. 

The appeal comes in the wake of Israeli airstrikes targeting Sana’a International Airport and key Red Sea ports, and retaliatory missile launches by the Houthis aimed at Israeli territory.

UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure, stating that strikes on airports and ports “deprive Yemenis of vital access to medical care, education, and religious travel,” especially as thousands prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage. 

He emphasized that both sides must uphold international humanitarian law and protect civilian lives and facilities.

The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, recently concluded meetings in Muscat with regional officials and Houthi representatives, stressing the need to translate ceasefire agreements into lasting peace. 

He also called for the immediate release of UN and NGO personnel arbitrarily detained by Houthi authorities, warning that such actions undermine humanitarian operations across Yemen.

Security Council members echoed the UN’s concerns, with several delegations condemning Houthi attacks on commercial shipping and Israeli airstrikes on civilian targets. The Council urged both parties to return to dialogue and avoid dragging Yemen deeper into regional conflicts.

The UN continues to advocate for a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis, warning that “every day without progress prolongs the suffering of millions” amid rising food insecurity and deteriorating public services.