By Abukar Osman - Reporter
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Ethiopia, July 23 2026 – The African Union on Thursday condemned attacks claimed by Yemen's Houthi movement against commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea, warning that the escalation threatens regional security, maritime trade and global supply chains.
In a statement, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the attacks, which followed the Houthis' announcement of a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, posed a serious risk to one of the world's most strategic maritime corridors.
"The security of maritime routes in the Red Sea is of vital strategic importance to Africa," Youssouf said, adding that disruptions to commercial shipping could affect regional maritime connectivity, energy security and the economies of African countries that depend on the route for international trade.
The African Union expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed its support for the kingdom's security, sovereignty and stability.
Youssouf called on the Houthis to immediately halt attacks on commercial vessels, avoid further escalation and respect international law governing freedom of navigation.
He also reiterated the African Union's support for regional and international efforts aimed at reducing tensions, safeguarding maritime security and pursuing a negotiated settlement to the conflict in the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.