Europe Asia News

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot issued a statement on the Houthis’ latest attacks against Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognized Yemeni government. Prevot said the attacks represented “a new and dangerous escalation in a region already under immense pressure,” adding that Belgium strongly condemned them.

Prevot argued that the Houthis were escalating the conflict with Iran’s support and said forces that attack their neighbors and threaten one of the world’s most important maritime shipping routes cannot be supported while calls are being made for de-escalation.

Emphasizing that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait cannot be a bargaining chip, Prevot said blocking or disrupting this route would put global supply chains at risk. He said this could lead to shortages and price increases in food, fuel and other essential goods, adding: “The most vulnerable will pay the heaviest price.”

Prevot stressed that the escalation must end and freedom of navigation must be protected, calling on Iran to use its influence to reduce tensions. Prevot said: “Diplomacy must prevail before another front spirals out of control.”