ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s deputy ambassador at the United Nations this week called for the protection of civilians in Yemen amid the ongoing cycle of violence between Israel and Houthi rebels, urging dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts in the Middle East.
International media reports said at least 35 people were killed after Israel carried out air strikes in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa and Al-Jawf governorate last week. The strikes were carried out a day after Israel targeted Hamas leaders in Doha on Sept. 9, triggering angry reactions from Muslim countries worldwide.
The strikes were the latest in more than a year of attacks and counterstrikes between Israel and Houthi militants in Yemen, part of a spillover from the war in Gaza. At the UN Security Council briefing on Yemen on Monday, Pakistan’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Usman Jadoon voiced concern at the rising violence between Israel and Houthi militants.
“Pakistan expresses deep concern on the ongoing cycle of violence between the Houthis and Israel and its repercussions on Yemen and the region,” Jadoon said. “We call for restraint, de-escalation and the protection of civilians.”
Jadoon condemned Israel’s attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure in Yemen, saying they “cannot be justified under any pretext.”
Houthi militants have detained at least 21 UN personnel from Aug. 31, drawing sharp condemnation from the Security Council. Jadoon condemned the arbitrary detentions and the forced entry into World Food Programme and UNICEF by Houthi members.
“These actions violate international law, undermine the UN’s ability to operate in Yemen and deliver the much-needed assistance,” he said. “The safety of UN staff and property, and the inviolability of UN premises must be guaranteed at all times.”
The Pakistani envoy said it remains imperative to prioritize sustainable solutions for Yemen through dialogue and diplomacy.
“We urge all parties to break the stalemate through political will and concrete steps toward an inclusive peace process,” Jadoon said, calling on the Security Council to facilitate the process.
