United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has sharply criticized the Houthi attacks on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia, labeling the violence as unacceptable. Speaking from UN headquarters in New York, he emphasized that the escalation of global conflicts is exacerbating economic strains on vulnerable nations. Guterres expressed particular concern about the deteriorating situation in Yemen, where intensified fighting around Taiz has led to significant civilian suffering and regional instability.
The Secretary-General highlighted the dire humanitarian needs in Yemen, with hundreds of thousands displaced and resources stretched thin. He called for immediate restraint and a revival of political dialogue to address the conflict. The UN’s special envoy is actively engaging with relevant parties to foster opportunities for peaceful resolution.
Guterres warned of the broader implications of global conflicts, describing the phenomenon as an “El Niño of war.” He explained that conflicts in one region can ripple across the globe, causing economic disruptions that affect energy markets, shipping routes, supply chains, and financial systems. These disruptions lead to increased costs for food, fuel, and borrowing, placing additional burdens on households and developing economies.
He stressed that these impacts deepen existing inequalities, forcing poorer families to make difficult choices and leaving countries with heavy debts struggling to fund essential services like healthcare, education, and development. The UN chief also condemned attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in conflict zones, including those in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan, underscoring the need to protect homes, hospitals, schools, airports, and energy facilities under international humanitarian law.
Focusing on the occupied Palestinian territories, Guterres voiced concern over obstacles to humanitarian aid reaching Gaza and attacks on Palestinian communities in the occupied West Bank. He urged donors to respond to a $450 million funding appeal to aid people in Gaza and the West Bank over the next six months and reiterated the importance of a credible political process to end the Israeli occupation and achieve a two-state solution.
Guterres announced plans for an upcoming visit to Egypt, where he intends to focus on preventing further escalation in the region, protecting civilians, and creating diplomatic opportunities for peace. His remarks followed reports of intensified Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including strikes targeting airports, raising further concerns about civilian safety and regional stability.