Joseph Borrell, the European Union's top diplomat for foreign affairs and security, appeared unsure when asked about dealing with Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and what actions can be taken to counter this threat.
In response to a question from Asharq Al-Awsat during a press briefing in Riyadh on Tuesday, Borrell discussed whether recent peace efforts in Yemen could change the Houthi group’s behavior and its threat to international navigation.
He viewed the stalled peace process in Yemen as a side effect of the Gaza conflict, which postponed the announcement of a peace agreement that was planned months ago.
Before the Gaza conflict, UN envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg suggested for Borell to consider visiting Aden in the next two months for a potential agreement.
The Gaza conflict changed plans, revealed the EU’s top diplomat, adding that Yemen’s peace was near, but not anymore.
Borrell highlighted Houthi attacks on Red Sea ships as a significant regional problem.
He stressed the need for an EU mission to protect navigation.
Borell noted that the Houthi attacks threaten more than just Israel.
British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps described a recent assault as “the largest attack by the Iranian-backed Houthis in the Red Sea to date.”
The Pentagon had announced that US and British forces have downed 18 explosive drones, two cruise missiles, and a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis towards international shipping routes in the southern Red Sea.
Grundberg had held talks in Oman and Riyadh to shape a peace plan for Yemen.
The discussions centered on commitments made by Yemeni parties with mediation from Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Grundberg also met with the leader of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), Rashad Al-Alimi, in Riyadh.
They discussed local developments and international pressures to encourage Houthi militias to engage in peace efforts, alleviate the people's suffering, and restore legitimate institutions.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Grundberg outlined the peace plan, including a nationwide ceasefire, reopening roads, paying public sector salaries, resuming oil exports, easing restrictions on Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port, releasing conflict-related detainees, and preparing for an inclusive political process under UN guidance.
The parties also pledged the departure of non-Yemeni forces, reconstruction efforts, and commitment to a comprehensive and lasting political solution.
