The Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, has issued a statement regarding deadly airstrikes against a detention center in Yemen.

“The Secretary-General condemns the airstrikes launched earlier today by the Saudi-led Coalition against a detention center in Saada city,” Dujarric said, adding: “Initial reports indicate at least 60 deaths and over 100 hurt among the inmates. Further airstrikes have been reported elsewhere in Yemen, also with reports of deaths and injuries among civilians, including children. An airstrike on telecommunications facilities in Hudaydah has also significantly disrupted vital internet services across much of the country.”

Dujarric went on to say: “The Secretary-General reminds all parties that attacks directed against civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited by international humanitarian law. He further reminds all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure that civilians are protected against the dangers arising from military operations, adhering to the principles of proportionality, distinction and precaution.”

“The Secretary-General calls for prompt, effective and transparent investigations into these incidents to ensure accountability.”

“The Secretary-General calls for urgent de-escalation of the situation and urges the parties to engage with his Special Envoy to advance the political process to reach a negotiated settlement to end the conflict. Recalling the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, he urges donors and all other stakeholders to enable humanitarian relief efforts with adequate funding, access and other support,” the spokesman concluded. (ILKHA)