UK Condemns Reckless Houthi Actions as Escalation of Violence Unfolds at UN Security Council

In recent weeks, Yemen and its surrounding region have witnessed a troubling surge in violence, largely attributed to the reckless actions of the Houthis. This escalation includes drone and missile strikes targeting Saudi Arabia, attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, and breaches of Yemeni airspace by Iranian aircraft.

It is imperative that Iran halts its prolonged support for the Houthis, a move that poses a significant threat to the stability of Yemen.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed or injured due to these alarming developments, which have included nationals from Yemen, Pakistan, and Indonesia.

Condemnation of Aggressive Actions

Last week, this Council issued a strong message denouncing the actions of the Houthis and advocating for de-escalation. We strongly encourage the Houthis to redirect their focus towards achieving peace and alleviating the suffering of the Yemeni population, rather than dragging Yemen into a broader regional conflict.

The United Kingdom reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the sovereignty and security of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the overarching stability of the region.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The recent surge in violence exacerbates an already critical humanitarian crisis. More than 22 million individuals require humanitarian assistance, with over 18 million facing food insecurity. Alarmingly, more than 2.2 million children under the age of five are acutely malnourished.

Yemen’s heavy reliance on food and fuel imports renders it particularly susceptible to further shocks. With humanitarian funding under increasing strain and warnings from the Food and Agriculture Organisation regarding drought risks and heightened food insecurity, a return to large-scale conflict could transform an already desperate situation into a full-blown catastrophe.

The United Kingdom is committed to collaborating with partners to bolster the humanitarian response, building on the over $180 million in UK funding allocated last year for life-saving humanitarian assistance.

Call for the Release of Detained Personnel

Additionally, we remain profoundly concerned about the Houthis’ ongoing detention of 73 UN personnel, along with numerous NGO and civil society members, many of whom have been held for over two years. It is crucial that the Houthis immediately and unconditionally release all individuals in detention and permit humanitarian workers to operate safely and without hindrance.

Celebrating Progress in Yemeni Governance

In a positive development, the United Kingdom welcomes the appointment of Dr Afrah Al-Zouba as Yemen’s first female Foreign Minister. We look forward to collaborating with her and the wider Yemeni government to support essential reforms and enhance security and stability, particularly through the new Yemen National Development Strategy.

As we move forward, the decisions made at this juncture will significantly influence whether Yemen gravitates towards peace or descends deeper into conflict and humanitarian crisis. The United Kingdom remains unwavering in its support for the UN Special Envoy’s role and an intra-Yemeni peace process under UN auspices, striving to help cultivate the peaceful future that the Yemeni people rightfully deserve.