African Union (AU) has condemned the recent attacks on commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea, pointing out as a serious threats.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who made the comment for the African continent, warned that the incidents threaten peace in the area, maritime security, and world trade. On his statement released in Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa on Thursday, Youssouf expressed the African Union’s condemnation against Houthis’ claim of a naval blockade in the Persian Gulf against the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Youssouf pledged the African Union’s full commitment and solidarity with Saudi Arabia, reaffirming Africa overall body’s steadfast support for the protection of the Kingdom’s security, sovereignty and stability.
He stressed that acts of vandalism against commercial vessels and efforts to hinder the flow of maritime traffic could be the main reasons of the disruption of one of the world’s most important shipping route and will have a detrimental impact on international maritime security.
He said that the Red Sea is an essential element to the continent of Africa, since it’s a major route through which many countries get their trade, energy supplies, and gain access to world markets.
He mentioned that persistent disturbance to such traffic might mean a serious deterioration of regional maritime connectivity, global supply chains and the economic interests of African countries.
Also, Youssouf appealed to the Houthis to immediately stop conducting all commercial shipping attacks, not to further escalate the situation, and at the same time, completely adhere to international law regulating maritime navigation.
He emphasized the African Union stands together with both regional and international initiatives directed at calming down the situation, ensuring maritime security and encouraging a peaceful and negotiated solution to the hostilities.
