International community urged to prevent Yemen from becoming a warzone following Israeli assaults

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the recent Israeli attacks in Yemen, resulting in civilian casualties. The UN envoy has urged all parties to use available diplomatic channels to reduce tension and cease attacks, as Yemen cannot afford to become a battlefield for a broader geopolitical conflict.

The prime minister of the government controlled by the Shiite Houthi rebels, Ahmed al-Rahawi, was tragically killed in an Israeli airstrike during a routine meeting to assess their activities over the past year. The attack also claimed the lives of other high-ranking officials of the Shiite Houthi rebel government.

The Israeli military confirmed the prime minister's death, stating that he was killed "along with other high-ranking Houthi officials." The airstrike was made possible due to information from intelligence services and a rapid operational cycle that took place in a few hours.

The Houthis, who are part of the "resistance axis" against Israel, led and funded by Iran, have vowed to avenge al-Rahawi's death. Since October 2023, the Houthis have launched multiple missile attacks against Israel, despite a ceasefire with the United States that came into effect in May this year. The ceasefire prohibits the Houthis from attacking American interests in the region, including ships in the Red Sea.

The conflict between Israel and the Houthis is deeply rooted in the broader geopolitical context, involving Iran and its allies. The Houthis are apparently supported by Iran and have ties to Russia, while Israel is opposed by the Houthis in the current conflict. The Houthis have attacked Israeli-related shipping and declared ongoing hostilities against Israel since the Gaza war began in October 2023, with Iran backing the Houthis and also fostering a "resistance axis" involving extremist groups such as the Palestinian Hamas and Islamic Jihad, and the Lebanese Hezbollah.

In response to al-Rahawi's death, the Houthis appointed Mohammed Ahmad Mouftah as interim prime minister. The representative of the United Nations has urged all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, in accordance with their obligations under international law, and to cease attacks to de-escalate the situation.

As the conflict continues, the United Nations and the international community call for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, emphasizing the importance of preserving civilian lives and stability in the region.