China on Wednesday expressed its grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in Yemen and called for immediate de-escalation at a United Nations Security Council emergency session.
At the meeting held at the UN headquarters in New York City, UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg warned that despite the Iran-Israel ceasefire, the situation in Yemen remains "increasingly fragile" with Houthi attacks on commercial vessels creating severe security and environmental risks.
He urged prioritized efforts to establish a Yemeni ceasefire, restart political talks, and create regional security guarantees. Also at the meeting, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher reported an already dire humanitarian situation in Yemen, with over 17 million Yemenis facing food insecurity, child malnutrition reaching crisis levels, and multiple provinces reportedly standing on the brink of famine.
In his speech at the meeting, China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Geng Shuang expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in the Red Sea, particularly the regional security risks arising from attacks on commercial vessels.
He stressed the importance of respecting navigation rights under international law and safeguarding waterway security.
"China expresses its deep concern over the escalating situation following renewed clashes between Houthi forces and Israel. We urge all parties to exercise maximum calm and restraint and refrain from any actions that could further inflame tensions," Geng said.
He stressed that "Protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure constitutes an international obligation that all parties must uphold. Respect for national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity represents a fundamental principle that must be strictly observed."
Geng connected Yemen's stability to broader regional peace, noting that "resolving the Yemen issue requires easing tensions across the region, particularly an immediate ceasefire in Gaza to end the humanitarian catastrophe."
He reiterated China's call to accelerate the implementation of the two-state solution and convene a high-level international conference at an early date.
China urges restraint amid escalating Yemen conflict at UNSC meeting
China urges restraint amid escalating Yemen conflict at UNSC meeting
China urges restraint amid escalating Yemen conflict at UNSC meeting
