G7 foreign ministers urge Iran to stop arming Houthis

G7: The G7 is an intergovernmental forum of seven major advanced economies including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Its foreign ministers issued a joint statement on September 21, 2026, after meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, urging Iran to halt arms supplies to Yemen's Houthis amid rising conflict. Iran: Iran is a Middle Eastern nation with significant regional influence through alliances and proxy support. The G7 ministers accused it of arming and backing the Houthis in Yemen, actions they described as violating UN resolutions and contributing to escalation that threatens trade and stability. Houthis: The Houthis are an Iran-aligned rebel movement controlling parts of Yemen and engaged in conflict with Saudi-backed forces. They have carried out strikes on Saudi Arabia and civilian shipping in the Red Sea, prompting strong G7 condemnation and demands to cease military actions and return to political talks. John Irish: John Irish is a Reuters foreign affairs correspondent based in Paris who covers international diplomacy and conflicts. He reported the September 21, 2026, Reuters article on the G7 foreign ministers' statement calling on Iran to stop supporting the Houthis. Christian Schmollinger: Christian Schmollinger is a Reuters editor specializing in commodities and energy coverage. He edited the Reuters dispatch detailing the G7 ministers' calls regarding Iran, the Houthis, and threats to global trade. Diplomatic Context: The G7 statement was issued ahead of Iranian officials' participation in the UN General Assembly, underscoring ongoing international concerns over Tehran's regional role. Escalation in Yemen: Houthi forces have recently advanced along Yemen's Red Sea coastline, capturing strategic areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and prompting refugee movements. Shipping and Trade Risks: Houthi actions have included strikes on vessels and threats to civilian shipping in the Red Sea, which the G7 linked to risks for international trade and energy security.