British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has underscored the presence of an "ongoing and imminent threat" from the Houthi rebel group in the Red Sea to shipping, addressing Members of Parliament. Sunak's statement follows the second round of action against Houthi military sites, which he asserted was "fully in-line with international law" and executed in self-defense, prioritizing the prevention of civilian casualties.
During his address to MPs, Sunak emphasized that the actions taken were a response to a genuine and immediate threat to maritime security. The UK's intervention in targeting Houthi military sites in the Red Sea aimed to mitigate the risks posed to shipping in the region.
While asserting the commitment to international legal norms, Sunak made it clear that the UK government was not seeking a confrontation. However, he emphasized the government's readiness to take decisive action if necessary. Sunak stated, "Inaction is also a choice," signaling the government's stance on addressing potential threats and safeguarding security interests.
The PM's statement sheds light on the delicate balance between national defense and diplomatic considerations, highlighting the imperative of adhering to international legal frameworks. As tensions persist in the Red Sea region, the UK's proactive approach reflects a commitment to addressing security challenges while navigating the complexities of global geopolitical dynamics.