Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 April 2025
172. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to outline the Government's position on the actions of the Houthi in Yemen and surrounding waters; on the support being voiced for them by certain former Irish politicians; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16409/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has consistently condemned the attacks by the Houthis in Yemen against international shipping in the Red Sea, which began in November 2023. The Government has also condemned rocket attacks on Israel by the Houthis, which is completely unacceptable.
Attempting to close down one of the world’s major shipping routes, threatening vessels and the lives of the crews aboard them is completely unacceptable and threatens the European and Irish economy and livelihoods, as well as impacts further afield, such as the price of grain to vulnerable people in East Africa. Oil tankers have been attacked, and environmental disasters only averted by international action. Ireland has supported the defensive EU Naval Mission in the Red Sea, Operation Aspides ¸ which has protected vessels in the Red Sea since its inception in February 2024.
More broadly, we remain concerned about the situation in Yemen, a country which is already in critical condition. Human rights issues are of special concern in areas controlled by the Houthis. Ireland also supports the UN mission in Yemen in its humanitarian and development work to help alleviate some of the most dire situations in the region, now made worse by the arbitrary detention by the Houthis of UN and other aid workers, with a consequent reduction in the aid reaching these areas.
The Houthis have brought suffering to the people of Yemen. I urge all parties in Yemen, including the Houthis, to choose the path of peace and engage in an inclusive political dialogue. The long-suffering people of Yemen deserve a better future.
