Russia has urgently requested a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on January 12, following military strikes by the United States and the United Kingdom in Yemen. The strikes targeted Houthi rebels, and Russia seeks to address the situation at the UN Security Council.
US and UK Conduct Strikes in Yemen
Military forces from the United States, supported by the United Kingdom, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, carried out strikes against Houthi rebel targets in Yemen. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described the action as “limited, necessary, and proportionate” in self-defense.
Reasons Behind the Strikes
The UK and the US took action due to ongoing Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, including recent incidents against UK and US warships. Despite international warnings, Houthi aggression continues, leading to targeted strikes to degrade Houthi military capabilities and safeguard global shipping.
International Response
UK Prime Minister Sunak emphasized the commitment to freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade. The US President, Joe Biden, supported the strikes as a clear message against Houthi attacks on international maritime vessels, stating that the actions were a response to escalating threats.
Diplomatic Efforts at the UN
Before the strikes, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution calling for an immediate end to attacks on ships in the Red Sea. However, Russia, China, Algeria, and Mozambique abstained from voting, and earlier Russian proposals to modify the resolution were rejected.
Roots of the Conflict
The Houthi rebels initiated the strikes in response to the conflict between Israel and Gaza. They declared intentions to target Israeli territory and disrupt the passage of ships through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait until the Israel-Hamas conflict ceased.
US Operation Prosperity Guardian
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported over 20 attacks on commercial carriers and ships in the Red Sea since mid-November. In response, the US government initiated Operation Prosperity Guardian to ensure navigation safety and protect ships in the region.
The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics and the ongoing challenges in the region, prompting international responses and diplomatic efforts at the United Nations.
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