Brussels: The European Union (EU) Thursday urged the Houthi movement to cease all actions targeting international shipping and risking the lives of seafarers.

According to Qatar News Agency, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas stated: "The Houthis must cease all actions that endanger international shipping and the lives of seafarers." Kallas emphasized that the recent threats issued by the group to impose a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia "pose a direct threat to regional stability and constitute a dangerous escalation."

The EU statement comes in response to a recent declaration by the Houthis, who announced a "maritime blockade" related to Saudi Arabia. This blockade involves prohibiting shipping companies from loading or unloading cargo, with threats to target vessels that do not comply.