UN chief slams deadly airstrikes in Yemeni port city. At least 25 people have been killed and 70 others wounded

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday condemned the multiple airstrikes by the Saudi Arabia-led coalition on Sept. 21 in the Red Sea port city of Hudaydah, Yemen, which killed and injured dozens of people, including children and women.

The secretary-general said, in a statement issued here by his spokesman, "once again reminds all parties to the conflict that they must fully respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular the fundamental rules of distinction, proportionality and precaution."

"He reiterates his call for urgent measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure," the statement said.

• At least 25 people have been killed and 70 others wounded in the Saudi-led coalition airstrikes in the Yemeni port city, reports said. 

The raid took place late on Wednesday reportedly against a presidential palace used by the Houthi rebel movement, but missiles also hit neighboring houses.

"The Secretary-General expresses his sincere condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured," the statement said.

"The secretary-general also urges all parties to recommit to the terms and conditions of the 10 April cessation of hostilities," the statement said.

"Stressing that a negotiated political settlement that addresses the legitimate concerns of all parties remains the only viable solution to the conflict, he calls for a new round of peace negotiations facilitated by his Special Envoy for Yemen," the statement added.
 [Xinhua/china]
23/9/16