By Horn Africa News Staff
New York — Speaking on behalf of the A3+ group (Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone, and Somalia), Somalia delivered a strong statement to the United Nations Security Council expressing grave concerns over the deteriorating situation in Yemen and escalating regional conflicts.
Somalia specifically warned against the recent clashes between the Houthi movement and Israel, labeling them a significant threat to international peace. These hostilities were directly linked to the unresolved conflict in the Gaza Strip. The A3+ countries condemned violations of international law and called on the global community to urgently implement a durable ceasefire to address the plight of Palestinians and prevent the further spread of violence in the region.
The group voiced support for diplomatic efforts led by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar aimed at securing an official ceasefire in Gaza. They urged the Security Council to back all initiatives fostering stability and productive dialogue.
Additionally, A3+ condemned Houthi attacks on commercial vessels operating in the Red Sea, describing these actions as serious risks to global trade. Israel’s airstrikes in the Hodeidah region on July 6-7 were also strongly criticized for endangering civilian lives and potentially igniting further conflict.
The A3+ countries emphasized that all parties involved in Yemen’s conflict must uphold international humanitarian law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, and refrain from militarizing densely populated civilian areas.
The statement highlighted severe humanitarian concerns, noting outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, dengue fever, and dysentery, which have strained Yemen’s fragile healthcare system. Somalia expressed support for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) urgent call for enhanced access to aid and swift humanitarian relief across Yemen.
