Guterres ‘concerned’ by Israeli strike on Houthis and risk for further escalation

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres “is deeply concerned about the reports of airstrikes earlier today in and around the port of Hodeida in Yemen,” a statement from his spokesman says.

“Israel has claimed responsibility for the strikes, noting that this is in response to previous Houthi attacks on Israel,” the statement continues.

“Initial reports indicate a number of fatalities and over 80 people injured in this attack and that there has been considerable damage to civilian infrastructure. The secretary-general calls on all concerned to avoid attacks that could harm civilians and damage civilian infrastructure.”

Guterres also “remains deeply concerned about the risk of further escalation in the region and continues to urge all to exercise utmost restraint,” the statement adds.