Condemnation of Houthi Escalation in Yemen
The United Kingdom has firmly condemned the alarming escalation of hostilities by the Houthis in Yemen. Their recent military activities have exacerbated the ongoing conflict, increased the suffering of civilians, and obstructed any potential pathway to peace.
In Taiz City, Houthi forces persist in their siege of civilian populations, jeopardising essential supply routes and further burdening an already fragile healthcare system. This behaviour exemplifies their reckless indifference to the welfare of the Yemeni people.
The Houthi assaults on maritime operations, civilian lives, and critical infrastructure pose significant threats to regional stability, maritime safety, and global energy security. The United Kingdom extends its heartfelt condolences to Saudi Arabia following the attacks on the Abha and King Khalid International airports.
We stand in solidarity with both the Government of Yemen and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in their response to these aggressions, reaffirming their right to defend their sovereignty and security in accordance with international law. Given the recent Iranian attacks, including those against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, the actions of the Houthis threaten to further destabilise an already precarious region. We implore the Houthis to de-escalate and recommit to diplomatic efforts.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amid Conflict
The repercussions of this escalation are being acutely felt by ordinary Yemenis. Since the resurgence of fighting in September, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated further. Reports indicate that 479 civilians have either been killed or injured, with over 200,000 individuals forcibly displaced from their homes, exacerbating the challenges faced by communities already struggling to cope.
UNICEF has highlighted that around 300 primary healthcare facilities have been impacted, severely limiting access to essential care, including nutrition and vaccination support. Women and girls, as always, bear the brunt of this crisis. The UNFPA has documented distressing instances where pregnant women have been compelled to give birth on the roadside.
It is imperative that we take more significant action. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting humanitarian efforts, with a pledge of $137 million this year. We also welcome the recent release of a staff member from the World Food Programme; however, many others remain detained, separated from their families and loved ones for extended periods.
We will continue to advocate for the immediate and unconditional release of all personnel associated with the UN, NGOs, civil society, and diplomatic missions who are held by the Houthis, as well as for unrestricted humanitarian access to those in need.
Need for Effective International Pressure
This escalation underscores the necessity for sustained international pressure on the Houthis. Their capacity to continue these attacks is facilitated by the flow of weapons and dual-use items into Houthi-controlled territories, in blatant violation of this Council’s resolutions. Resolution 2140 established a sanctions regime aimed at curtailing this flow of arms, and it is essential that all Member States adhere to its stipulations.
As we approach the renewal of the mandate next month, this Council must ensure that the sanctions regime remains effective, relevant, and adaptable to the evolving threats posed by the Houthis. Ultimately, there is no military resolution to this conflict.
The United Kingdom maintains its unwavering support for the efforts of Special Envoy Grundberg in facilitating de-escalation and promoting an inclusive political dialogue. We call upon the Houthis to prioritise dialogue over escalation, and to seek a political resolution rather than perpetuating the cycle of conflict.