UK Strongly Condemns Houthis’ Escalation in Yemen: Official Statement at UN Security Council

The United Kingdom has firmly condemned the dangerous escalation of the Houthis in Yemen, highlighting the detrimental impact of their recent offensive on the ongoing conflict, which has exacerbated civilian suffering and further diminished the chances of achieving peace.

In Taiz City, Houthi forces persist in besieging civilians and jeopardising vital supply routes, thereby placing additional strain on an already fragile healthcare system. This situation exemplifies their reckless disregard for the welfare of the Yemeni population.

The Houthis’ attacks on maritime shipping, civilians, and essential infrastructure pose significant threats not only to regional stability but also to global energy security. In light of the recent assaults on Abha and King Khalid International airports, the United Kingdom extends its condolences to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

We stand resolutely alongside the Government of Yemen and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in responding to these attacks, reaffirming their right to defend their security and sovereignty under international law. The actions of the Houthis, compounded by months of Iranian aggression against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, risk further destabilising an already precarious region. We urge the Houthis to pursue de-escalation and return to diplomatic negotiations.

Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies

The repercussions of this escalation are being felt most acutely by ordinary Yemenis. Since fighting intensified in September, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated further. Recent reports indicate that 479 civilians have either been killed or injured, and over 200,000 individuals have been displaced from their homes, many of whom have sought refuge in communities that are already struggling to cope.

UNICEF has highlighted that 300 primary healthcare clinics have been impacted, severely restricting access to essential services such as nutrition and vaccination support. Tragically, women and girls are bearing the brunt of this crisis, with reports from UNFPA indicating that numerous pregnant women have been forced to give birth on the roadside due to the lack of medical facilities.

There is an urgent need for increased support. The United Kingdom remains committed to aiding the humanitarian response, with a pledge of $137 million this year. We welcome the recent release of a member of the World Food Programme but recognise that many others remain detained, separated from their families for years. We will persist in advocating for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN, NGO, civil society, and diplomatic personnel held by the Houthis, alongside a call for full, safe, and unhindered access to humanitarian aid.

The Necessity of International Pressure

This escalation underlines the critical importance of sustained international pressure on the Houthis. Their ability to continue these attacks is facilitated by the ongoing flow of weapons and dual-use items into Houthi-controlled territories, in direct violation of the Council’s resolutions. Resolution 2140 established a sanctions regime aimed at halting this arms flow, and it is imperative that all Member States adhere to its provisions.

As we approach the renewal of the mandate next month, it is essential that the Council ensures the sanctions regime remains effective, relevant, and responsive to the evolving threats posed by the Houthis. Ultimately, there is no military solution to this conflict.

The United Kingdom continues to support the efforts of Special Envoy Grundberg in promoting de-escalation and advancing an inclusive political dialogue. We urge the Houthis to prioritise dialogue over escalation and to seek a political resolution instead of perpetuating conflict.