Media Statement

18 January 2022

South Africa condemns attacks directed at targets in the United Arab Emirates

The South African Government has noted, with concern, the escalation of tensions in the Gulf Region.

The drone attacks on Monday, 17 January 2022, directed at the industrial area of Musaffah near Abu Dhabi International Airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), resulted in the killing of three people.

This incident follows shortly after the hijacking of the UAE ship, Rwabee, and its crew on 3 January 2022 by Houthi Militia.

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has expressed her concerns that such attacks only serve to destabilise regional security, including that of the United Arab Emirates.

Of particular concern is the fact that the attacks are targeting industrial and civilian areas. Furthermore, these continued attacks have the potential to derail the United Nations’ mediation efforts in Yemen.

The Minister added that the attacks that resulted in a number of casualties and injured, could have a severe impact on the goal of peace in Yemen and the broader Middle East region.

South Africa continues to maintain that an UN-mediated and Yemeni-led peace process is the only means to realising a lasting peace and regional stability.

The Minister added that the Republic of South Africa urges all parties to exhibit restraint in pursuit of the mediation process. The Minister also assured the Government and the people of the United Arab Emirates, of South Africa’s support in this regard.

Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

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