Red Sea – France condemns the ongoing Houthi attacks against commercial ships (24 January 2024)

France reiterates its condemnation of the attacks carried out by the Houthis against commercial ships in the Red Sea, which undermine navigational rights and freedoms. Through these armed actions, the Houthis bear full responsibility for regional escalation. We call on them to end these attacks and to immediately release the Galaxy Leader and its crew, whom they have held hostage since November 19, 2023.

We supported the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2722 on January 10, which states that the exercise of navigational rights and freedoms must be respected and that States have the right to defend their ships against these attacks, in accordance with international law.

France will continue shouldering its responsibilities and contributing to maritime security in the area in conjunction with its partners in the region, with the aim of avoiding a regional escalation. We are continuing to deploy a French frigate in the Red Sea for that purpose. We are working with our partners to have the EU step up its contribution to maritime security in the Red Sea.