US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held a telephone conversation with his UK counterpart Gen. Pat Ryder. The two leaders discussed the ongoing illegal Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea.

“They both noted that these attacks violate freedom of navigation protected by international law, and threaten citizens of multiple countries,” a statement issued by the US Department of Defense said.

“Both Secretaries highlighted that the attacks are unacceptable and profoundly destabilizing to the international rules-based order. The ongoing impact of these attacks on global commerce is jeopardizing the movement of critical food, fuel, and humanitarian assistance throughout the world. Secretary Austin noted that these attacks constitute a significant international problem that demands collective action,” it added.