G7 members condemn Houthi attacks on merchant ships

Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani has said that the G7 members condemned the Houthis’ attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea.

“The G7 members renewed their strongest condemnation of the attacks perpetrated by the Houthis against commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and the navy ships protecting them,” Tajani, in his capacity as Chair of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, said at the Munich Security Conference on February 17, according to the message posted on the Italian government’s website.

“Moreover, the G7 members underlined that these attacks violate international law, endanger innocent lives and threaten navigational rights and freedoms. In line with UNSCR 2722 they reiterated their support for countries that exercise the right to defend their vessels from attacks, in line with international law,” he noted.

“They welcomed the upcoming launch of the EU maritime operation ‘Aspides’ and the continued efforts of the US–led operation “Prosperity Guardian” along with UK support to protect these crucial shipping lanes, as maritime security and navigational rights and freedoms are critical to ensure free movement of essential commodities to destinations and populations all over the world,” he added.