April 14, 2026
Mr. President,
I would like to begin by thanking the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Hans Grundberg, and the Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division of OCHA, Ms. Edem Wosornu, for their briefings. I also welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of Yemen.
Mr. President,
First, France condemns in the strongest terms the missile attacks carried out by the Houthis against Israel in recent days. These attacks are fueling regional escalation. France calls for the utmost restraint and an immediate halt to any military action in order to prevent further spread of the conflict. France further reaffirms its unwavering support for maritime security and freedom of navigation. In this regard, it will continue its engagement within the framework of the European Union’s defensive security and defense policy operation EU-NAVFOR ASPIDES, in accordance with international law and in coordination with its European and international partners.
Second, France demands the immediate and unconditional release of all United Nations and non-governmental organizations staff as well as diplomatic missions personnel arbitrarily detained by the Houthis. These detentions, which violate international law, have gone on for far too long. As we recalled less than a week ago, attacks against humanitarian personnel are unacceptable, and Resolution 2730 must be respected. These acts hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid that the Yemeni population desperately needs, at a time when the situation continues to deteriorate. The latest United Nations assessment is unequivocal: compared to 2025, an additional 2.8 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Children and women are particularly vulnerable.
Third, France reaffirms its commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Yemen. It supports the government’s efforts to consolidate the Yemeni State and reiterates its support for the new government, which needs to be able to work toward the stabilization of the country and to meet the basic needs of the Yemeni people. France will continue to act in support of the legitimate authorities, for the benefit of the population. France also supports the prospect of holding, in Saudi Arabia, an inclusive dialogue aimed at addressing the issue of southern Yemen, as announced earlier this year by President Alimi.
Mr. President,
France reaffirms its full support for the work of the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, whose efforts are key. France calls on all Yemeni stakeholders to engage in good faith in efforts to resume a political process under the aegis of the United Nations, which alone can lead to the establishment of lasting peace in Yemen.
Thank you.
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