China Urges Restraint After Airstrikes Hit Sanaa International Airport

The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency meeting in New York on July 13, 2026, to address escalating violence in Yemen. The session followed airstrikes on Sanaa International Airport, which the Houthis attributed to Saudi Arabia. The attacks forced an Iranian aircraft carrying a Houthi delegation to divert to Hodeidah airport and prompted the Houthis to announce the end of their de-escalation phase with Riyadh.

During the meeting, Sun Lei, the charge d'affaires of China's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, expressed serious concern that the instability in Yemen is linked to a broader regional decline. He noted that a ceasefire memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran is being challenged and urged both nations to resume negotiations and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz to avoid a wider conflict.

UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari briefed the council on the strikes and the diverted Iranian flight. China emphasized the need for all parties to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Middle East and Gulf region countries, specifically calling for the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers.