The United Nations has warned of serious consequences if tensions in the Red Sea escalate following a Houthi threat to impose a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said any disruption to the Red Sea – a key global shipping route alongside the Strait of Hormuz – could affect humanitarian aid deliveries, peacekeeping supplies and global commerce, particularly energy trade. The UN urged all parties to resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy.