The United Kingdom’s Deputy Permanent Representative, Archie Young, addressed the UN Security Council’s Middle East briefing on Yemen, commencing his statement by commending efforts to solidify the recent ceasefire between Iran and the United States. He extended gratitude to Pakistan and all facilitating partners for their crucial role in this step towards regional stability and the restoration of navigation freedom in the Strait of Hormuz.
However, Young expressed concern over recent Houthi attacks targeting Israel, warning that these actions risk further regional destabilization and undermine Yemen’s fragile security. He strongly urged the Houthis to cease these ‘unacceptable attacks’ and refrain from drawing Yemen deeper into the broader regional conflict.
Emphasizing the plight of the Yemeni people, who have endured years of instability and economic hardship, Young asserted their right to a peaceful and secure future. He lauded the new Yemeni government, formed in February, for its ‘strong start‘ and early progress on reforms, which he noted ‘sends an important signal of commitment to improving governance and economic stability.’ The UK encouraged the government to sustain this momentum to deliver tangible benefits and foster conditions for lasting peace.
Highlighting the dire humanitarian situation, Young cited the March publication of the Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), revealing that 22 million people require assistance, with 18.3 million facing acute food insecurity. He attributed this crisis to conflict, economic decline, and the impacts of flooding and drought, pushing communities towards emergency levels of hunger. Young stressed the urgent need for ‘sustained funding’ to prevent further worsening conditions and save lives, calling for immediate collective action.
Addressing the critical issue of weapons smuggling, Young informed the Council that the UK recently convened members and affected states for an expert briefing on Houthi arms-smuggling networks, which violate Security Council Resolution 2254. He anticipated the forthcoming report from the Panel of Experts on dual-use components and maritime interdictions, affirming the UK’s continued support for the Panel’s vital work in countering Houthi weapons smuggling.
Finally, Young reiterated the UK’s strong condemnation of the ongoing detention of aid workers, demanding their immediate release. He stated that these Houthi actions ‘violate fundamental rights, due process and shrink the operational space for international NGOs that is vital to support the growing needs of the Yemeni people.’
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