African Union condemns Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping
The African Union condemned Houthi-claimed attacks on commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea and warned that further disruption could harm maritime security, supply chains and African economies.
The African Union has condemned attacks claimed by Yemen’s Houthi movement on commercial oil tankers in the Red Sea, warning that disruption of the waterway threatens regional stability, trade and energy security.
In a statement reported on July 23, 2026, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the attacks as a dangerous escalation. The statement followed the Houthis’ announcement of a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia.
Youssouf expressed the AU’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed the continental bloc’s support for the kingdom’s security, sovereignty and stability. He called on the Houthis to stop attacks on commercial shipping, avoid further escalation and comply with international maritime law.
“The freedom of navigation and the safety and security of commercial shipping must be fully respected in accordance with international law,” Youssouf said, according to The Reporter Ethiopia.
The AU chairperson said interruptions in the Red Sea could damage regional maritime links, global supply chains and the economic interests of African countries that depend on the route. The Red Sea is a major corridor for international trade and energy shipments.
The commission also reiterated support for regional and international efforts to reduce tensions, protect maritime security and seek a negotiated settlement aimed at restoring stability in the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.
