The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, is deeply concerned by the recent escalation by Ansar Allah in the Red Sea, including the attack that led to the sinking of the commercial vessel Eternity C on 8 July, resulting in deaths, injuries, and individuals still missing. He extends his condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a swift recovery to those injured, and calls for the safe and prompt return of the missing to their loved ones.
 
The Special Envoy is also equally concerned about the earlier attack and subsequent sinking of the commercial vessel Magic Seas on 6 July. These incidents underscore the growing risks to civilian lives, international navigation, and regional stability.
 
The Special Envoy stresses that such attacks on commercial vessels violate international maritime law and Security Council resolution 2722 (2024) and reiterates that freedom of navigation must be upheld. He warns against the risk of serious environmental harm resulting from damage to the vessels, including possible marine pollution and other broader consequences.
 
He urges Ansar Allah to cease attacks that risk escalating tensions in and around Yemen and to build on the cessation of hostilities with the United States in the Red Sea and to provide durable guarantees to the region and the wider international community, ensuring the safety of all those using this critical waterway.