By Staff Writer
NAIROBI, Kenya — African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has strongly condemned recent Houthi strikes targeting commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea, following the group’s declared naval blockade against Saudi Arabia.
In an official statement released Thursday, Youssouf labeled the attacks a dangerous escalation threatening regional peace and maritime stability, while reaffirming the African Union’s backing for Saudi sovereignty and security.
Youssouf stressed that targeting commercial vessels violates international law and undermines freedom of navigation through a vital global trade corridor.
“The security of maritime routes in the Red Sea is of vital strategic importance to Africa,” Youssouf stated, warning that ongoing shipping disruptions directly endanger African economies, global energy security, and cross-continental supply chain connectivity.
The African Union called on Houthi forces to halt all attacks on commercial shipping immediately and comply with international maritime law. Furthermore, Youssouf urged all involved parties to support diplomatic pathways aimed at de-escalating tensions and achieving a peaceful resolution across the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.
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