Condemning Airstrikes on Yemen, Secretary-General Reminds All Parties of Necessity to Respect International Human Rights Law

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns the airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition that hit the Hayadeen Medical Hospital, run by Médecins Sans Frontières with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organization in Sa’dah governorate.  The strikes reportedly resulted in injuries to several people and the complete destruction of the facility.

The Secretary-General notes that hospitals and medical personnel are explicitly protected under international humanitarian law.  He further reminds all parties of the utmost necessity to respect their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law to prevent attacks against civilians and civilian objects.  The Secretary-General calls for a prompt, effective and impartial investigation in order to ensure accountability.

The Secretary-General calls on all parties to the conflict in Yemen to immediately cease all operations, including airstrikes.