In a surprising move, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared that recent airstrikes in Yemen were acts of “self-defense” aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring stability to the Red Sea region. Sunak made these statements during a press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, where he emphasized the need to send a strong signal against what he termed a breach of international law.
Sunak asserted that the airstrikes, supported by the US, UK, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, were necessary, proportionate, and targeted actions against Houthi rebels. The Houthi attacks, according to Sunak, posed risks to innocent lives, disrupted the global economy, and destabilized the region.
The British Prime Minister referred to a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, citing the right to self-defense for states. Sunak underlined the international community’s condemnation of the Houthi actions and their collective decision to take action in response.
Sunak highlighted the success of the initial airstrikes and pledged continued monitoring of the situation. He, along with US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, emphasized that these strikes were in self-defense, aligned with obligations to protect overseas troops and ensure the flow of commerce.
The Houthi rebels, an Iran-aligned group, initiated the strikes in response to Israel’s Gaza conflict. The rebels insisted that they would not cease attacks until Israel concluded hostilities in Gaza. The Yemen-based Houthi group has carried out several drone and missile attacks against Israel, with most intercepted.
Amidst these developments, Prime Minister Sunak reiterated the UK’s unwavering support for Ukraine in its conflict against Russia. During his surprise visit to Kyiv, Sunak announced an increase in military aid, emphasizing Britain’s commitment to stand by Ukraine for as long as needed.
I am in Ukraine to deliver a simple message.
Our support cannot and will not falter.
To all Ukrainians, Britain is with you – for as long as it takes 🇬🇧🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/1ya8m2seiJ
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) January 12, 2024
“I am in Ukraine to deliver a simple message. Our support cannot and will not falter. To all Ukrainians, Britain is with you—for as long as it takes,” Sunak declared after landing in Kyiv.
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