Urgent Appeal for De-escalation in Yemen
The United Kingdom has joined Bahrain in calling for an urgent meeting in response to the alarming escalation of hostilities by the Houthis in Yemen, particularly their indiscriminate attacks on Saudi Arabia. This situation has escalated significantly, prompting a strong condemnation from the UK regarding the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict and their ongoing strikes, which have notably targeted civilian and energy infrastructure.
We urge the Houthis to halt their aggressive actions immediately. Our thoughts are with the victims of this violence, and we express our deepest condolences to those who have lost their lives or been injured. The United Kingdom stands firmly alongside Saudi Arabia and the Government of Yemen as they confront these serious threats to their sovereignty and security.
It is crucial to recognise that the Houthis are entirely responsible for the current crisis. Their aggressive actions not only destabilise the region but also endanger freedom of navigation, transit, and vital trade routes across the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb. The Houthis’ advances towards the Bab al-Mandeb strait significantly heighten the risks associated with international shipping, maritime security, and global trade, with developing nations being the most adversely affected by these events.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amidst Conflict
In addition to regional instability, the Houthis’ decision to reignite conflict exacerbates the dire humanitarian situation facing many Yemenis. Over 22 million individuals in Yemen require humanitarian assistance, with more than 18 million suffering from acute food insecurity. The ongoing detention of UN and non-governmental organisation personnel by the Houthis is compounding this humanitarian crisis and obstructing the efforts of those dedicated to assisting vulnerable populations during this critical period.
It is imperative that the Houthis immediately and unconditionally release all personnel detained from NGOs, civil society, and diplomatic missions, including the 73 UN staff currently held. The continued detention of these individuals is not only a violation of their rights but also a significant barrier to delivering much-needed aid to those in distress.
The Role of External Influences in Regional Instability
Furthermore, the long-standing support provided by Iran to the Houthis perpetuates instability within Yemen. We emphasise the necessity of fully implementing Security Council resolutions 2140 and 2216, which include essential measures aimed at preventing the transfer of arms, military support, and dual-use components that facilitate Houthi attacks and undermine regional peace and security.
It is crucial for all Member States to adhere to these obligations to safeguard civilians, neighbouring nations, and international shipping from Houthi aggression. The United Kingdom remains unwavering in its support for the initiatives of the UN Special Envoy aimed at achieving enduring peace in Yemen. We implore the Houthis to prioritise the needs of the Yemeni people, cease hostilities, and recommit to the peace process.
Today, it is essential for this Council to convey a clear and unified message: the Houthis must de-escalate, halt their attacks, and pursue a path towards peace. The UK will persist in collaborating with our partners to support this vital objective.