US strongly condemns Houthi attack on UAE vessel

WASHINGTON, Oct 2 (KUNA) -- The US strongly condemned Saturday's attack by the Houthi forces against a UAE vessel operating near the strategic Red Sea Strait of Bab El-Mandeb.
"We take these threats seriously," said State Department Spokesperson John Kirby on Sunday.
"The United States remains committed to upholding freedom of navigation through the Bab El-Mandeb," he reaffirmed.
Kirby called on the Houthis to immediately end attacks against all vessels, stressing that "these provocative actions risk exacerbating the current conflict and narrow the prospects for a peaceful settlement." In order to resolve the conflict in Yemen, Kirby urged the Houthis "to demonstrate their commitment to a peaceful solution by taking steps to deescalate by adhering to a cessation of hostilities without preconditions." The US reiterated its call for all parties to return to the UN-led negotiations. (end) ak.gb