In recent days the Houthis have continued their reckless attacks against Saudi Arabia, escalated military operations inside Yemen, and further endangered international shipping and regional stability.
The United Kingdom strongly condemns these actions.
Overnight Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia have reportedly injured a further 13 civilians, damaged homes and residential areas, and disrupted commercial aviation.
The Houthis have also sought to consolidate control along Yemen’s Red Sea coast and around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
These actions pose a direct threat to one of the world’s most important shipping routes and to the freedom of navigation on which the global economy depends.
The impact is felt first and hardest by developing countries.
The Houthis bear full responsibility for this escalation.
We stand in solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the Government of Yemen in the face of these attacks and reaffirm their right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law.
President, the humanitarian consequences of Houthi actions are becoming increasingly severe.
More than 126,000 people have now been displaced, and that number is likely to grow.
Humanitarian agencies are warning of the particular impact around Marib, which already hosts one of Yemen’s largest displaced populations.
Alongside displacement, we are seeing signs of rising food insecurity, as well as growing health and protection needs, particularly for women and children.
We are deeply concerned by reports of increasing civilian harm, including impacts on displaced people, civilian infrastructure, schools, homes, and other protected sites.
Humanitarian access is being further disrupted, preventing assistance from reaching extremely vulnerable populations.
The Houthis’ continued detention of humanitarian, UN, and diplomatic mission personnel remains unacceptable.
We call for their immediate and unconditional release.
Finally, President, this escalation did not occur in a vacuum.
Iran’s longstanding support to the Houthis continues to enable attacks that threaten civilians, neighbouring states, maritime security, and prospects for peace.
The Council’s resolutions, including Resolutions 2140 and 2216, are clear.
All Member States must fully implement their obligations, including measures to prevent the transfer of arms and military support to the Houthis.
President, the United Kingdom remains steadfast in its support of the UN-led peace process and the efforts of Special Envoy Grundberg.
But there can be no progress towards peace while the Houthis continue their military offensive, their attacks against Saudi Arabia, their threats to international shipping, and their obstruction of humanitarian action.
Today the Council should deliver a simple and united message:
The Houthis must cease their attacks, release detained personnel, de-escalate immediately, and return towards the pathway to peace.
