[23/07/2026 06:29]

ADDIS ABABA – SABA
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has condemned the Iran-backed Houthi militia's claimed attacks on a Saudi vessel in the Red Sea, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to maritime security, regional stability, and global supply chains.

In a statement issued by the African Union Commission, Youssouf said that targeting commercial vessels or attempting to disrupt freedom of navigation in the Red Sea constitutes a dangerous escalation that jeopardizes one of the world's most strategically important maritime corridors.

He stressed that freedom of navigation and the safe passage of commercial shipping must be fully respected in accordance with international law.

The AU Commission Chairperson also expressed the African Union's full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, reaffirming the organization's support for the Kingdom's security, sovereignty, and stability.

Youssouf underscored the strategic importance of Red Sea shipping lanes for Africa, noting that any disruption to maritime traffic threatens regional connectivity, global supply chains, energy security, and the economic interests of numerous African nations whose trade depends on safe and open sea routes.

He called on the Houthi militia to immediately cease all attacks against commercial shipping, refrain from any actions that could further escalate tensions, and fully comply with international law governing maritime navigation.

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