The African Union (AU) has condemned attacks on commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea, warning that the escalating tensions pose a threat to maritime security, global trade and the economic interests of African countries.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, described the attacks claimed by the Houthis following their announcement of a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia as a dangerous development with serious implications for regional stability.
In a statement issued from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday, July 23, the AU Chairperson expressed the bloc’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed support for the country’s security, sovereignty and stability.
He said attacks targeting commercial vessels and attempts to disrupt maritime movement threaten one of the world’s most strategic shipping routes.
According to the AU, freedom of navigation and the safety of commercial shipping must be protected in line with international law.
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Youssouf stressed that the security of the Red Sea is particularly important to Africa because many countries on the continent depend on the route for trade and economic activities.
He warned that continued disruption of shipping could affect regional connectivity, global supply chains, energy security and the economic interests of African states that rely on safe access to maritime routes.
The AU Chairperson called on the Houthis to immediately halt attacks on commercial shipping and avoid actions that could further intensify tensions in the region.
He also urged respect for international maritime laws and called for renewed efforts by regional and international actors to reduce tensions and pursue a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The AU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at protecting maritime security and promoting lasting peace and stability in the Red Sea region and the wider Middle East.
