Greece Urges Security Council to Halt Yemen Escalation

Greece has issued a strong call for de-escalation in the Middle East, warning that Yemen must not be drawn into a wider regional conflict. According to a statement delivered at the United Nations Security Council, the Greek delegation emphasized that the current military escalation poses a severe threat to stability in the area.

The remarks, attributed to Aglaia Balta, Permanent Representative of Greece to the UN, came during the 10219th meeting focused on the situation in Yemen. The intervention highlighted the urgency of preventing further hostilities that could spill over into neighboring states, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Condemnation of recent military strikes

Athens explicitly condemned recent attacks by Houthi forces against civilian and energy infrastructure in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Greek representative stated that these actions have resulted in civilian casualties and are unacceptable under international norms. The statement reaffirmed Greece’s unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

According to the GN geopolitics/un report, the delegation urged all parties to exercise utmost restraint. The core message was that actions fueling regional tensions must cease immediately to avoid igniting a broader military confrontation with consequences extending far beyond the region.

Maritime security in the Red Sea

Freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait was identified as a critical issue for global stability. Greece strongly criticized repeated attacks on commercial and merchant vessels, noting that such actions disrupt international trade and endanger seafarers. The delegation emphasized that these threats must be addressed to ensure the free flow of commercial shipping.

The statement also highlighted the role of EU Operation ASPIDES in protecting commercial vessels. Greece remains committed to safeguarding maritime routes in accordance with its defensive mandate and full respect for international law, ensuring safe passage for trade in the region.

Diplomatic path for Yemeni peace

With Yemen having endured more than a decade of conflict, the Greek delegation stressed that a return to large-scale hostilities would have grave consequences for the Yemeni people. The statement supported the efforts of UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, advocating for an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process as the only viable path to lasting peace.

The intervention concluded with a call for the immediate release of arbitrarily detained individuals, including UN staff and humanitarian personnel. Greece reiterated that the safety of these workers must be respected, and that all parties must contribute constructively to diplomatic efforts to restore stability and dialogue in the region.