UN Warns Red Sea Security Risks Could Threaten Global Energy Markets and Food Security
The United Nations has warned that growing maritime security risks in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait could have consequences for international shipping, global energy markets, food security and international peace and security. UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari called for navigation rights and freedoms in the strategic maritime corridor to be respected in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2722.
Khiari said instability around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key route for global maritime trade, could create wider risks for international commerce and energy supplies. He also highlighted the potential economic impact on vulnerable countries if instability in the region persists.
Khiari made the remarks during an emergency session of the UN Security Council on 15 September 2026, which examined developments in and around the Bab al-Mandab Strait. He referred to the deteriorating security situation along Yemen’s western coast and developments involving Houthi forces.
The UN official also condemned reported Houthi attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and the energy sector in Saudi Arabia. He referred to missile and drone attacks reported on 14 September, which affected several locations in southern Saudi Arabia.
Khiari additionally referred to the reported drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline on 12 September. The strike caused injuries and material damage and resulted in the pipeline being shut down for repairs. The pipeline provides an alternative transportation route for oil exports that avoids the Strait of Hormuz.
At the time of the UN briefing, commercial shipping flows through the Red Sea appeared to remain unaffected, according to maritime tracking information cited by Khiari. However, the security developments have increased concerns over the protection of commercial vessels, shipping routes and critical maritime infrastructure.
Khiari urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation. He also stressed the importance of respecting freedom of navigation and international maritime law while pursuing efforts toward a political solution in Yemen.
The developments have renewed attention on the strategic importance of the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait to global supply chains, maritime trade and energy security. The UN has warned that prolonged instability in major maritime corridors could eventually affect energy markets, food supplies and economies vulnerable to external shocks.
