The United Nations has suggested that the Saudi-led air strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen are legitimate, being requested by the country’s internationally-recognized president, but called upon Arab nations to ensure a peaceful solution to Yemen’s political crisis.
In an address directed to the Arab League’s 26th summit, held in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh on Saturday, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said, “I take note that military action has been undertaken at the request of Yemen’s sovereign and legitimate leader, President Hadi.”
Noting that he shares Arab concerns over the situation in Yemen, Ki-Moon said that he has “repeatedly condemned the attempts by the Houthis and former President Saleh to undermine political agreements by military force.”
The UN chief urged Arab states to nonetheless ensure a peaceful solution to the crisis, stressing that UN-sponsored negotiations towards an “inclusive” political system in Yemen is the only way out of the situation.
“Negotiations…facilitated by my Special Envoy Jamal Benomar and endorsed by the Security Council… remain the only chance to prevent a long, drawn-out conflict.”
