Press release

Foreign Secretary condemns attempted missile strike on Riyadh

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson statement following attempted Houthi missile attack on 19 December.

From:
Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon Boris Johnson
Published
19 December 2017
This was published under the 2016 to 2019 May Conservative government

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said:

I am appalled by another attempted missile strike on Riyadh on 19 December. This is the second such shocking incident in six weeks, which yet again deliberately targeted a populated area.

I strongly condemn the Houthis for this attack, which they have claimed. Everyone will be outraged at the Houthi spokesman boast that they were targeting the Royal Palace.

I call upon all countries in the region to do what they can to implement UN Security Council Resolutions and prevent such attacks which are increasing regional tensions. I strongly support UN investigations into the origins of these weapons and welcome the UN’s suggestion of a joint discussion of the relevant UN bodies to look into these threats and consider action against those responsible. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Saudi Arabia as it faces regional crises and security threats.

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Published 19 December 2017