'Deeply Concerned:' UN Chief Antonio Guterres on Israel's Attack on Yemen

New Delhi: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over Israel's recent airstrikes in and around the Yemeni port of Hodeidah on Saturday. 

In a statement, Guterres called for "utmost restraint" from all parties and avoid attacks that could harm civilians and destruct critical infrastructure.

The airstrikes, which Israel claimed responsibility for, were reportedly in response to previous attacks on Israel by Houthi rebels. However, Guterres urged all sides to prioritize civilian safety and avoid escalation to war. 

The UN chief's statement comes amid rise in tensions in the region, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis in both Yemen and Isarel. 

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the reports of airstrikes earlier today in and around the port of Hudaydah in Yemen. Israel has claimed responsibility for the strikes, noting that this is in response for previous Houthi attacks on Israel," the statement read.

António Guterres urged those involved in the attacks to not further escalate it, in order to maintain peace in the region.

"Initial reports indicate a number of fatalities and over 80 people injured in this attack, and that there has been considerable damage to civilian infrastructure. The Secretary-General calls on all concerned to avoid attacks that could harm civilians and damage civilian infrastructure," the statement further read.

He further advised all to exercise utmost restraint.