S/PV.10105 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Yemen to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen; and Ms. Lisa Doughten, Director of the Financing and Partnerships Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Mr. Grundberg. Mr. Grundberg: As we navigate an increasingly contested world, in which established rules and norms are under strain and conflicts are multiplying across regions, we must be reminded that these are familiar themes for Yemenis. For years, they have lived with the uncertainty brought by the erosion of institutions, the fragmentation of authority and the gradual disappearance of predictable rules. That is why the steps being taken now to improve living conditions and support stabilization in government areas carry such significance. These efforts can restore a measure of stability and predictability, so Yemenis’ lives are shaped less by disruption and improvisation and more by accountable institutions that apply rules fairly and serve citizens equitably. By reducing tensions and building consensus, these steps can also help create a conducive environment for a wider political settlement to the conflict. These are some of the issues I have been discussing in Riyadh, from where I brief you today. Here in Riyadh, I met with the newly appointed Prime Minister, Mr. Shaya Zindani, and members of the Presidential Leadership Council. There are early positive signs in government areas, including improvements in the provision of electricity and the payment of public sector salaries. However, continued tensions, recent security incidents and demonstrations, where in some cases violence and loss of life have been reported, underscore the fragility of the situation. Improvements in service delivery can be reversed if security deteriorates, if economic reforms stall, or if institutions are pulled in competing directions. I am particularly concerned about recent attacks targeting media institutions and journalists, including in Aden. A free press and freedom of expression are essential for good governance, public accountability, civic engagement and channeling disputes through politics rather than force. The new cabinet under Prime Minister Zindani’s leadership can protect recent gains by anchoring them in strengthened institutions and economic reforms. That will require an enabling environment that shields the cabinet and the Central Bank from politicization and rebuilds confidence. I also would like to take this opportunity to commend the appointment of three women ministers, after several years of women being absent in the cabinet. This should be reinforced through the full, equal and meaningful inclusion of women in decision- making at all levels of government and in peace negotiation teams and advisory structures. Inclusive peace processes are more legitimate, and experience shows that they deliver more sustainable outcomes. In parallel, the Southern Dialogue that is being planned offers an opportunity to begin addressing long-standing grievances and build consensus on issues important to southerners and all Yemenis. Advancing shared visions for the future will help pave the way to inclusive nationwide discussions and negotiations, through which these issues can be addressed comprehensively and sustainably. Ultimately, stabilization in any part of the country will not be durable if the broader conflict in Yemen is not addressed comprehensively. It is high time to take decisive steps in that regard. Without a wider negotiated political settlement to the conflict, gains will continue to remain vulnerable to reversal. In recent weeks, I have been engaging with the Yemeni parties, regional actors and members of the international community to explore pathways to restart an inclusive political process. My Office has also been consulting with diverse Yemenis on this question, including with governors to gain more nuanced insights into local concerns and how to address them at the national level. Across these discussions, three reflections on the way forward are clear. First, we must be honest about what more than a decade of war has done to Yemen. The conflict has become more complex. Lines of contestation have multiplied, and local dynamics have grown alongside national ones. While regional tensions have increasingly fuelled the conflict and been fuelled by it, our common objective has remained steady and firm: Yemen needs an inclusive political process under United Nations auspices to reach a negotiated political settlement that can sustainably end the conflict. But getting there requires that the parties adopt a forward-looking approach. We need to build on what still works, revise what are outdated assumptions and be pragmatic in designing a political process for today’s reality. Secondly, Yemen’s conflict is a set of interlocking files. Treating political, economic and security issues in isolation can produce only partial results that will not hold. Restarting a political process will therefore require that the parties engage across these tracks in tandem, without making engagement in one track contingent on progress in another. Thirdly, a credible process must deliver for Yemenis on two time horizons. It should enable near-term agreements that reduce suffering and demonstrate progress, including economic de-escalation measures. At the same time, it must create space for Yemenis to negotiate the longer-term issues essential to ending the conflict, including the future shape of the State, security arrangements and principles of governance. The conflict-related detainee file is a clear example of what can be achieved when the parties choose to engage in dialogue. Right now, the parties are in Amman, negotiating face-to-face under United Nations auspices, to work through the complex task of finalizing the names of detainees so a release operation can materialize, building on the agreed outcome of their meeting in Muscat in December. I encourage the parties to sustain this engagement, finalize the remaining elements without delay and move swiftly to implementation. With Ramadan approaching, the parties should work towards ensuring families can spend Eid with their loved ones. I also encourage the parties to continue beyond this phase, working towards their commitment to release all conflict- related detainees under the all-for-all principle. I thank the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for hosting these negotiations and the International Committee of the Red Cross for its indispensable role. This week marks one year since our World Food Programme colleague died while held in arbitrary detention by Ansar Allah. There has been no investigation or answers on the circumstances of his death. Instead, today 73 United Nations colleagues in addition to other former United Nations staff are detained, along with others from civil society and diplomatic missions. Many have been held incommunicado, with serious concerns about their conditions and well-being. Some have been referred to Ansar Allah’s Special Criminal Court, which is proceeding with trials that fall far short of basic due process. We have never given up on our detained staff, and we continue to pursue every avenue, at all levels, to resolve this issue. I call on Ansar Allah to unconditionally and immediately release detained staff and rescind all Court referrals. I urge regional and international actors to use their influence to push for these same outcomes. Before closing I want to turn to the region, which is again witnessing rising tensions. We all hope for de-escalation. But whatever the regional trajectory, Yemen must not be pulled back into a broader confrontation. The question of peace and war is, fundamentally, a national one. It cannot be outsourced nor can it be appropriated by a single actor. No single Yemeni actor has the right to unilaterally drag the country into a regional conflict. The responsibility borne by all Yemeni actors and decision makers is first and foremost to the Yemeni people – to their security, to their livelihoods and to their future. Upholding Yemen’s national interest and the aspirations of all its people must remain the guiding principles at all times, including in moments of heightened tension. Restraint, in this context, is an obligation. Lasting stability in Yemen depends on building institutions that serve Yemenis equitably wherever they live, so that divergence in views and contestation is channelled through dialogue and peaceful political engagement rather than violence. That requires an inclusive political process under United Nations auspices, and it requires unity behind that objective. I ask the Council to remain united in supporting a credible path back to a political process, and I urge regional actors to align around the same purpose and to use their influence in a coordinated way to steer Yemenis towards engagement. The United Nations remains ready to support Yemen in this endeavour.

I thank Mr. Grundberg for his briefing. I now give the floor to Ms. Doughten. Ms. Doughten: Allow me to start by recalling that despite the Secretary-General’s calls and despite all efforts, today 73 United Nations staff remain arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities, along with dozens of others from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society. On 29 January, the de facto authorities again entered multiple United Nations offices in Sana’a without permission, commandeering equipment and vehicles. The de facto authorities have also continued to withhold clearances for United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) flights to Ma’rib. UNHAS flights into Sana’a resumed over the weekend, following a month-long suspension caused by the lack of necessary clearances from the de facto authorities. As we have said in the Security Council before, these detentions of humanitarian workers are having a profound impact on operations. Such interference and impediments come at a time when the humanitarian situation is more desperate than ever. This year, 22.3 million people, or half the population, will need humanitarian assistance — an increase of 2.8 million from last year. Yemen continues to face the region’s most severe hunger crisis. Today more than 18 million people face acute food insecurity. Yemen is also the country with the largest number of people — 5.5 million — experiencing Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Phase 4 emergency food security conditions or above. The health system is coming under increasing strain. Some 40 per cent of health facilities are not functioning or at risk of closing owing to funding shortfalls and our partners scaling back their operations. This has a disproportionate impact on women and girls, as access to essential maternal and reproductive health services becomes even more restricted. This crisis is unfolding amid a rise in outbreaks of preventable disease and low immunization coverage. Just under two thirds of children are fully immunized. Between January and September last year, Yemen recorded more than 18,600 measles cases and 188 deaths — among the world’s highest. Yemen also registered the third‑highest cholera caseload worldwide between March 2024 and November 2025, with 350,000 suspected cholera and acute watery diarrhoea cases and 1,100 associated deaths, according to the World Health Organization. Food insecurity, limited access to healthcare and preventable disease are driving a dangerous rise in malnutrition, especially among children. More than 2.2 million children under the age of 5 are acutely malnourished, including 570,000 suffering from severe acute malnutrition. Nearly one in two children in Yemen is stunted, and wasting rates remain among the worst in the world. An additional 1.3 million pregnant and breastfeeding women are at serious risk of being malnourished in 2026. Despite extreme challenges, humanitarians continued to save lives in 2025. Our partners delivered food aid to more than 5 million people, provided 3.3 million medical consultations and treated more than 330,000 children for severe acute malnutrition. This was achieved with the humanitarian appeal funded at only 28.5 per cent, forcing us to make impossible choices. We deeply appreciate those donors who have continued to stand with the people of Yemen. But as I have outlined, Yemen is at a critical juncture. We must act together now to prevent a return to the devastating levels of hunger and disease witnessed only a few years ago, when malnutrition and cholera overwhelmed a fragile health system and wreaked havoc on communities across the country. We remain steadfast in our commitment to reach people across Yemen. Next week, in Amman, Jordan, we will convene donors, United Nations agencies and international and national NGO partners to refine how we deliver aid so that the most vulnerable continue to receive life‑saving support amid the growing limitations. We are reorganizing our operations to better address these challenges. Partners, including international and national NGOs, as well as the International Committee of the Red Cross, that remain active in areas held by the de factor authorities will assume a greater share of the operational workload on the ground. As we move forward, we will act collectively to ensure that the United Nations unique capacities — coordination and operational engagement with line ministries, disease surveillance, technical oversight and the maintenance of supply lines and humanitarian flights — are fully leveraged to enable an effective and principled humanitarian response. I urge the Council to actively support these efforts. Briefing after briefing, we raise the same issues. The Yemeni people deserve better. I ask members, first, to maintain sustained engagement and pressure to secure the release of arbitrarily detained United Nations and NGO colleagues, as well as those from civil society and diplomatic missions. This goes hand in hand with ensuring that humanitarians are protected and their work is facilitated. Secondly, I ask members to fund the humanitarian response in Yemen and engage other Member States to advocate for early contributions and sustained funding. We must prevent further deterioration. Millions of lives hang in the balance.

I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I would like to thank Mr. Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, and Ms. Lisa Doughten of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs for their valuable briefings. I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the sisterly Republic of Yemen, His Excellency Ambassador Abdullah Al-Saadi. The Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes the formation of the new Yemeni Government headed by His Excellency Mr. Shaya Mohsin Zindani and affirms its support for the efforts of the Yemeni Government in dealing with current developments and maintaining Yemen’s security, stability and unity. In this spirit, my country supports the Yemeni Government in its measures aimed at unifying security and military decisions in order to strengthen the cohesion of State institutions and limit any attempts to disturb civil peace. At the same time, the Kingdom of Bahrain condemns any terrorist acts aimed at disrupting the security situation and provoking new tensions, leading to the loss of innocent lives and terrorizing civilians. The Kingdom of Bahrain also condemns the Houthis’ seizure of communications equipment and vehicles from six United Nations offices and their transfer to unknown locations, as well as their refusal to allow the operation of United Nations Humanitarian Air Service flights at a time when urgent humanitarian needs in Yemen are increasing, particularly in Houthi-controlled areas. The Kingdom of Bahrain recalls the Security Council resolutions on the situation in Yemen, the latest of which is resolution 2813 (2026), which calls on the Houthis to enable a safe and secure operating environment, including through the immediate and unconditional release of all those arbitrarily detained United Nations personnel, diplomatic missions and non-governmental organizations. Achieving development helps to build a future based on solid foundations of stability and prosperity. Accordingly, the Kingdom of Bahrain commends the package of projects and programmes announced by the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Programme for Yemen in vital and essential sectors in the various Yemeni governorates, as it reflects the keenness of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to support security, enhance recovery in Yemen and create conditions for a better future for the Yemeni people. In conclusion, my country reaffirms its support for the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Hans Grundberg, and his appreciated efforts to resume the political process in Yemen with a view to reaching a comprehensive settlement that will bring a sustainable end to the Yemeni crisis.

We thank Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Director Lisa Doughten for their briefings. Unfortunately, Yemen has endured a prolonged political, economic and humanitarian crisis that has exacted a heavy toll on the Yemeni people. At this critical juncture, as tentative signs of political movement emerge, it is vital to safeguard Yemen’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. A stable and unified Yemen is also essential for regional peace and security. Pakistan reaffirms its principled support for Yemen’s unity and sovereignty and stresses that all efforts must preserve national cohesion and respect State institutions. We welcome the consultations held in Riyadh last month under Saudi facilitation and encourage all Yemeni stakeholders to engage in good faith and with flexibility. Credible, inclusive and constructive dialogue, within the agreed parameters and with a forward-looking approach, remains the only viable path towards a negotiated political settlement that reflects the aspirations of the Yemeni people. We appreciate the role of Saudi Arabia and other countries of the region towards that end. We welcome the formation of the new Cabinet under the Presidential Leadership Council and hope that it will strengthen governance, improve service delivery and reinforce institutional coherence. Pakistan supports a Yemeni-owned and Yemeni-led political process, facilitated by the United Nations. We support the Special Envoy’s call for a comprehensive and inclusive nationwide process and regional consensus around a peaceful and stable Yemen. The humanitarian situation remains grave, with nearly 19 million people requiring urgent assistance and protection. Basic services are eroding, with less than two thirds of schools and only about half of health facilities operational. This requires urgently addressing the widening funding shortfall to sustain life-saving operations and prevent further deterioration. Pakistan strongly condemns the continued arbitrary detention of United Nations, humanitarian and diplomatic personnel and staff, as well as the unlawful seizure of United Nations premises and assets in areas under Houthi control. These actions contravene international law and undermine humanitarian work. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained personnel and for full respect for the privileges and immunities of United Nations personnel, facilities and assets. The Security Council’s united action remains critical to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people and to help advance a credible pathway toward peace, stability and prosperity. Pakistan continues to engage constructively in this regard and reaffirms its steadfast solidarity with the Government and the people of Yemen.

I want to thank our briefers for the insights they provided today. The United States is pleased that restraint and diplomacy have furthered stability in south-eastern Yemen. We are grateful for the diplomatic leadership of our partners — the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. We remain supportive of efforts to advance our shared security interests. Recent Houthi actions further close the humanitarian space in northern Yemen. The Houthis have removed equipment from United Nations offices, threatened to restrict United Nations humanitarian flights, and left the World Food Programme with no choice but to close its operations in northern Yemen. The Houthis continue to detain humanitarian workers, along with other staff of the United Nations, civil society organizations and diplomatic missions, including the United States mission. We condemn these detentions. We call on the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release all these detainees. The Council must join the United States in countering the Houthi threat by depriving them of resources for their terrorist activities. On 16 January, the United States issued the latest sanctions package targeting Houthi terrorist capacities. This action targets financial links between the Iranian regime and the Houthis, focusing on front companies and facilitators that fund the Houthis’ destabilizing activities and attacks in the Red Sea. Once again, the United States calls out Iran’s defiance of the Council’s resolutions by supplying the Houthis with arms and related materiel, as well as military, logistical and intelligence support. In doing so, the Iranian regime directly enables the Houthis’ destabilizing terrorist activities. We call on the Council to impose consequences, including the designation of those who fail to fully implement United Nations sanctions on the Houthis and their allies. Finally, we highlight the importance of the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism. All ships bound for Houthi-controlled ports, including those originating from Chinese ports, should comply with its procedures. Failure to do so suggests evasion of United Nations sanctions that undermines full implementation of the arms embargo adopted in resolution 2216 (2015).

I thank Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Director Lisa Doughten, for their briefings, and I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Yemen in today’s meeting. Having heard the valuable insights from the briefers and taking into account the latest developments in Yemen, I would like to make four points. First, at a time when Yemen continues to endure one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crises, with economic deterioration and persistent political instability, Latvia welcomes the announcement of Yemen’s new Government. This represents an important step towards stabilizing the country and enhancing public service delivery. The presence of women in the Cabinet is an especially positive signal, reflecting a dedication to diversity and inclusion. The new Government bears a profound responsibility to drive forward essential reforms and to advance inclusive political dialogue. In this context, Latvia reaffirms its unwavering support for the United Nations Special Envoy in his continued efforts to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable political settlement in Yemen. Secondly, while these developments are encouraging, Latvia strongly deplores the renewed Houthi threats against commercial shipping in the Red Sea. This serves as a stark reminder that the underlying threats to maritime security in the region persist and require the close and sustained attention of the Council. Safeguarding freedom of navigation and preventing further escalation depend, in no small part, on curbing the flow of weapons that sustain such threats. The responsibility to implement United Nations sanctions against the Houthis lies with all Member States. Without full, coordinated and effective implementation, the arms embargo will not constrain the Houthis’ operational capabilities. Thirdly, Latvia is alarmed by continued attacks on fundamental rights and freedoms in Yemen. We strongly condemn the recent storming of the Aden Al-Ghad newspaper offices. This constitutes a serious violation of the right to freedom of opinion and expression under international human rights law. Latvia calls for a prompt, independent and thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Yesterday’s eruption of violence in Shabwah Governorate is yet another example of the extremely volatile security situation in Yemen. As a final point, the erosion of security and fundamental rights in Yemen is compounded by a rapid and continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation. Recent findings released by Save the Children reveal an alarming increase in harm to children in Yemen over the past year. Child casualties have surged by 70 per cent, with the number of children killed doubling, compared to the previous year. Latvia’s message is therefore unequivocal: all parties must immediately halt the ongoing violence and prevent further harm to children by fully upholding international humanitarian law. Meanwhile, the safety of those delivering aid remains under serious threat. We condemn the detention of United Nations, humanitarian and diplomatic personnel by the Houthis, as well as the searches of United Nations offices and the seizure of equipment and assets. Latvia calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained staff and for an end to these hostile acts, recognizing that safeguarding and protecting aid workers is essential to ensure that much-needed life-saving assistance reaches Yemen’s most vulnerable.

I thank Special Envoy Grundberg and Director Doughten of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs for their briefings, and I welcome the representative of Yemen to this meeting. Denmark reiterates its demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all those unlawfully detained by the Houthis. Denmark strongly condemns the continued detention of aid workers, the death sentences issued for a number of the detainees and the forced entry into United Nations premises. These actions by the Houthis are directly restricting the ability of the United Nations to provide critical humanitarian support in territory under Houthi control. This is an assault not only against the United Nations but against ordinary Yemenis in desperate need of life-saving aid. The levels of food insecurity in Yemen are staggering, with more than 18 million Yemenis — approximately half the population — facing acute food insecurity, while tens of thousands face famine-like conditions. In this vein, we welcome the announcement of the resumption of vital aid flights to Sana’a to provide relief amid the overwhelming needs across Houthi-controlled areas. This is a step in the right direction, but it is not enough. We call on the Houthis to release all detained United Nations, non- governmental organization and diplomatic staff, facilitate immediate humanitarian access, lift all restrictions and prioritize the well-being of the people of Yemen. It is clear that divisions in southern Yemen are in no one’s interest and impede efforts towards lasting peace and prosperity. We must focus our efforts on stabilization and urge all parties to refrain from unilateral actions that could jeopardize a political settlement at this crucial time. Denmark is fully committed to the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Yemen. We express our full support for the Presidential Leadership Council, and we welcome the formation of the new Government as an important step towards stabilizing the situation, improving service delivery and pursuing much-needed reforms. The return of women to the Cabinet is a positive and essential element. In conclusion, after 11 years of conflict and insecurity, we must renew efforts towards a credible, inclusive political process to bring a negotiated end to this war. Denmark remains steadfast in its support for the efforts of the Special Envoy and calls upon all Yemeni stakeholders to engage in good faith towards this end.

Colombia thanks you, Mr. President, for convening this briefing, and Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Ms. Lisa Doughten, Director of the Financing and Partnerships Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, for their briefings. I welcome the presence of the Permanent Representative of Yemen. The complex recent developments in Yemen require the Council’s sustained attention. Colombia takes note of the efforts to open spaces for dialogue, including the announced dialogue process in the south. My country also highlights the consultations that the Special Envoy is conducting in Riyadh this week, with the aim of creating the conditions for that dialogue and articulating positions among national and regional actors. In our view, solutions must be built through an inclusive process, with the support of the United Nations and regional actors. In turn, Colombia urges all parties to avoid unilateral actions that threaten stability and to focus their efforts on rebuilding a shared political framework that prevents the escalation of tensions. In this regard, we highlight the resumption in Amman of negotiations on prisoner exchanges, under the auspices of the United Nations, as a gesture that can contribute to building trust between the parties. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate alarmingly. We have noted the recent resumption of United Nations Humanitarian Air Service flights to Sana’a for the month of February, although significant operational restrictions and challenges persist. It is imperative for humanitarian personnel to be able to operate without harassment or restrictions. In this regard, Colombia reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all United Nations personnel who remain in detention. Furthermore, the recent confiscation of United Nations equipment and assets constitutes a serious obstruction of humanitarian work and must cease immediately. Colombia reaffirms its support for a broad and inclusive political process that guarantees the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Yemen. The recent efforts of the Special Envoy to reduce intra-Yemeni tensions are essential to rebuilding trust. In our experience, only a participatory process that is accompanied by credible guarantees, nationally owned and nationally led and supported by the international community can provide a lasting solution.

We thank Mr. Hans Grundberg and Ms. Lisa Doughten for their briefings. The situation in Yemen remains tense. The consequences of the escalation observed in the southern provinces in December have not yet been resolved. This state of affairs has adversely affected the security situation and is complicating the humanitarian situation and leading to increased instability on the ground. We trust that all Yemeni parties will exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could lead to further clashes. The mediation efforts of countries in the region continue to play a crucial role in this process, prompting the antagonists to seek compromise. We trust that the initiative of the Presidential Leadership Council to hold a comprehensive dialogue in Riyadh on the southern issue will help to stabilize the military and political situation. The completion of work on the relevant road map, its acceptance by all parties to the conflict and the launch of a comprehensive political process with their participation remain the only realistic way to bring the country out of the crisis. Under these circumstances, we trust that Special Envoy Hans Grundberg’s efforts will be robust. We consider it necessary to intensify work on a settlement plan, with a focus on preserving viable national institutions. Momentum in this process could be generated by updating the regulatory and legal framework for a settlement, including resolution 2216 (2015). We see Yemen as a unified, sovereign and cohesive State. We firmly believe that the Yemeni people are capable of determining their own destiny. Problems and contradictions must be resolved through broad national dialogue under United Nations auspices, with the participation of representatives of all influential sociopolitical forces, including the Houthis. The humanitarian situation in the country remains complex. Despite the difficulties of organizing humanitarian operations and the persistent risks to humanitarian staff, we are convinced of the need for the United Nations to continue its work to deliver assistance to the people of Yemen. A reduction in humanitarian activity would inevitably worsen the plight of millions of people, especially given the dire food security situation in the country. We believe it is essential to harness the full range of humanitarian diplomacy tools. There is no alternative to dialogue. We are convinced that only through consistent, professional and constructive interaction with all Yemeni stakeholders can solutions be found that would ensure sustainable access, preserve space for humanitarian operations and increase the level of protection for humanitarian staff. We trust that United Nations humanitarian agencies will manage to develop streamlined and pragmatic approaches to provide ongoing support for the people of Yemen, including in areas under the control of the northerners, while strictly adhering to the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and other fundamental humanitarian principles enshrined in General Assembly resolutions. We are particularly concerned about the fact that the situation with detained United Nations humanitarian staff remains unresolved. Nevertheless, we believe that the United Nations presence, especially in northern Yemen, continues to play a key role in maintaining vital assistance and preventing further deterioration of the situation. Regardless of what happens on the ground, it is important that Yemenis not be divided into those who are supposedly good and those who are not sufficiently cooperative. We object to the broad interpretation of the provisions of the relevant Security Council resolutions, including those related to sanctions, which do not provide for the inspection on the high seas of vessels bound for Yemen or the delivery to third countries of military products confiscated during inspections. We fear that the withdrawal of the United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement in March could have a negative impact. We abstained in the voting on resolution 2813 (2026) on 27 January, which triggered the closure mechanism for the Mission. Let us hope that this will not result in attention being diverted from providing assistance to Yemeni civilians.

I would like to thank Mr. Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, and Ms. Doughten, Director of the Financing and Partnerships Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, for their informative briefings. I also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Yemen in the meeting. I would like to raise four points. First, we strongly condemn the entry by the Houthis into at least six United Nations offices in Sana’a, and the illegal removal of United Nations assets. Such actions are unacceptable and represent a serious breach of the inviolability of United Nations premises, assets and operations. We call upon the Houthis to immediately cease all actions that impede the work of the United Nations and humanitarian actors and to enable a safe and secure operating environment. This must include the immediate and unconditional release of all unlawfully detained personnel from the United Nations and non-governmental organizations, humanitarian workers and diplomatic missions’ staff. As we mark one year since the death of the World Food Programme (WFP) staff member, unlawfully detained by the Houthis, we reiterate our call for full clarity regarding the circumstances of his death and accountability. We further underscore the urgent need for all parties in Yemen to fully comply with international human rights and humanitarian law and to ensure the protection of civilians, particularly women and children. Secondly, the humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues to be extremely grave. This year, an estimated 23 million people — more than half of the population — require humanitarian assistance, including more than 18 million facing food insecurity, while nearly half of all children under the age of five are projected to suffer from malnutrition. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for sustained international support. We stress that the continued restrictions imposed by the Houthis significantly undermine humanitarian access, coordination and the delivery of life-saving assistance to people in need. In this regard, United Nations authorization to operate flights to Houthi- controlled areas, in a safe and secure environment, must be not simply sustained but also made permanent. We recognize the difficult circumstances that have led the World Food Programme to suspend operations in northern, Houthi-controlled areas. At the same time, we stress that the work of the WFP is indispensable to addressing Yemen’s severe humanitarian crisis. We reaffirm our full support for the WFP and other humanitarian actors and underline the urgent need for unimpeded access, sustained funding and security guarantees for humanitarian personnel. Thirdly, on the political front, we welcome the formation of the new Yemeni Government and express our full support for unity within the Presidential Leadership Council. We reiterate our unwavering commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. At this critical juncture, sustained and focused efforts are needed to advance an inclusive, Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political process. We welcome the participation of women in the new Government and underscore the importance of their full, equal and meaningful engagement in decision- making processes. We further reaffirm our steadfast support to Special Envoy Grundberg to reinvigorate the peace process and achieve a sustainable political solution. Fourthly, Houthis’ recurring threats against maritime traffic underscore the serious and destabilizing risk they continue to pose to freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea region, with significant and ongoing implications for international shipping and global trade. Trust has yet to be restored. Greece remains fully committed to supporting regional and international efforts to this effect, including through the Europe Union Naval Force Operation Aspides, in full respect of international law and the relevant Security Council resolutions.

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council (A3), namely the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia and my own country, Somalia. We express our gratitude to the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Mr. Hans Grunberg, and the Director of the Financing and Partnerships Division, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Ms. Lisa Doughten, for their comprehensive briefings on the political and humanitarian landscape. We also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Yemen in today’s meeting. The A3 remains concerned by the continued fragility of the situation in Yemen, which persists at the volatile intersection of political uncertainty, humanitarian distress and regional security risk. While large-scale hostilities have not returned to previous levels, recent developments underscore how localized tensions can rapidly escalate, placing civilians, humanitarian aid and the political process at risk. The A3 reaffirms its strong support for the United Nations-led mediation and the role of the Special Envoy in facilitating an inclusive, Yemeni-owned, Yemeni-led political process. In this context, we are closely monitoring developments in the south and east of the country, where tensions between the Government of Yemen and the Southern Transition Council have exposed the fragility of existing arrangements. At the same time, the A3 welcomes the Riyadh process aimed at bringing all different factions back to the negotiating table for an inclusive and unified Government. We further welcome the formation of the new Yemeni Government led by Prime Minister Shaya Mohsin Zendani and encourage all parties to engage in inclusive dialogue to prioritize national reconciliation. We note that the signs of de-escalation, including shifts in territorial control, have contributed to improved stability in parts of Aden, where the reopening of the airport and the lifting of the curfew represent positive steps for civilian protection. The A3 urges all actors to consolidate their gains through restraint and to avoid unilateral measures that risk further fragmenting the country. The humanitarian situation in Yemen remains among the most severe globally, and the A3 is alarmed by the catastrophic collapse in funding. The United Nations has issued a dire warning that 2026 may see the first reversal of humanitarian progress in a decade, with roughly 18 million people, half of the population, projected to face acute food insecurity by late this month. As the 2025 response plan remains only 28 per cent funded, the World Food Programme’s decision to shut down operations in northern Yemen by March will lead to a devastating loss of jobs and vital assistance for thousands of Yemenis. Furthermore, with Yemen’s health system approaching total collapse and more than 450 facilities already closed, the country has become a breeding ground for preventable epidemics, such as cholera, polio and measles. While the situation in Aden has stabilized sufficiently to allow operations to continue, activities outside the city remain cautious. Recent clashes in Hadramawt have affected hundreds of households, and it remains too early to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons until the conditions allow for a safe and dignified process. The A3 reiterates its grave concern regarding the continued arbitrary detention of United Nations and humanitarian personnel by the Houthis. The prolonged detention of these individuals is unacceptable. We demand their immediate, unconditional release and urge all parties with influence to resolve this issue swiftly. In closing, the A3 strongly encourages all Yemeni parties to demonstrate renewed urgency in advancing a sustainable political settlement. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Yemen’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and political independence. Yemen’s path to lasting peace lies not only in military de-escalation but in dialogue, compromise and sustained international engagement. The Security Council must remain united in supporting de-escalation and humanitarian access to meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people.

I would like to thank Special Envoy Grundberg and Director Doughten for their briefings. The Yemeni issue has protracted for years, with the Yemeni people trapped in a vortex of conflict, suffering from prolonged turmoil. At present, the political process in Yemen remains stalled. Security risks continue to intersect and multiply. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly. Restoring peace and stability in Yemen faces formidable challenges. The international community should redouble its efforts and work together to promote an early political settlement of the Yemeni issue so that the people of Yemen may once again enjoy peace and tranquillity. I wish to make three points. First, it is essential to uphold a political solution and sustain momentum in the Yemeni peace process. The recent developments in southern Yemen have drawn broad attention. China supports the preservation of Yemen’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. We urge all parties to address their differences through political dialogue and to work towards early reconciliation and the swift resumption of economic reconstruction. The international community broadly recognizes the legitimate Government of Yemen. We welcome the successful formation of the new Government. In recent days, the legitimate Government of Yemen and the Houthis held discussions on the implementation of the prisoner exchange agreement. We hope that the agreement will be carried out in good faith, thereby helping to rebuild confidence between the parties. The United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement is due to withdraw. It is imperative to ensure a seamless transition and an orderly transfer of responsibilities so that the United Nations may continue to play a substantive role in advancing the peace process in Yemen. Secondly, it is essential to prevent escalation and to jointly safeguard peace and stability in Yemen. We urge all Yemeni parties to exercise calm and restraint, to refrain from the use of force or any actions that could reignite conflict and to preserve stability on the ground. The overall situation in the Red Sea remains stable. Every effort must be made to sustain this positive momentum. The Houthis should respect the right of commercial vessels from all countries to navigate the Red Sea in accordance with international law and ensure the security of shipping lanes in the Red Sea. The relevant parties should earnestly respect Yemen’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thirdly, it is necessary to scale up humanitarian assistance and make every effort to alleviate Yemen’s humanitarian crisis. Yemen is facing its most severe food crisis in years, with 18 million people threatened by acute hunger. The international community must increase its humanitarian support for Yemen and ensure adequate funding for United Nations humanitarian agencies to curb the further deterioration of the food crisis. International humanitarian law must be upheld. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be targeted. The safety and security of United Nations personnel and facilities must be guaranteed. China reiterates its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained United Nations personnel and underscores once again that such actions are unacceptable. The situation in Yemen and the Red Sea is closely linked to the developments in the wider Middle East. Only a genuine, comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in Gaza can stabilize the situation in the Red Sea. We call for full compliance with the first phase of the ceasefire arrangement for Gaza, an end to all violations of the ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza and the effective implementation of the two-State solution. China will continue to work together with the international community to make unremitting efforts towards achieving a political settlement of Yemeni issue and restoring peace and stability across the Middle East. In response to the relevant statement by the representative of the United States of America, I wish to stress that China has strictly upheld and implemented Security Council resolutions, conscientiously fulfilling its international obligations. China’s approach to the export of military equipment has always been prudent and responsible. Our control of dual-use items has always been stringent. In the meantime, Chinese companies have the right under World Trade Organization rules and market principles to carry out normal commercial and trade cooperation with all countries. The representative of the United States, without presenting any evidence, has resorted to insinuation and groundless accusations against China. We find this regrettable, and we reject such accusations.

We thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, and the Director of the Financing and Partnerships Division of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Lisa Doughten, for their briefings. While we have seen a certain degree of calm in some areas, the humanitarian situation in Yemen remains one of the world’s most serious and complex crises. Approximately 19.5 million people need humanitarian assistance, in a context marked by economic deterioration and fragile basic services, with a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable populations, in particular women and children. In this context, the fact that there are 4.5 million internally displaced persons further exacerbates the already critical situation facing thousands of Yemeni families. The loss of livelihoods, limited access to food, healthcare and education and precarious housing conditions render the displaced persons more vulnerable and jeopardize their safety and well-being. In turn, the Houthis’ actions aimed at destabilizing Yemen and consolidating their control over northern areas deliberately undermine the delivery of humanitarian assistance. As we have reiterated every month in the Security Council since January 2025, the Houthis’ intimidation campaign, including the arbitrary and illegal detention of humanitarian workers, as well as the violation of areas under United Nations supervision, violating their protected status and confiscating property from those facilities, constitutes a serious violation of international law. Panama deplores the narrative promoted by the Houthis, which unfairly seeks to hold humanitarian personnel responsible for the consequences of their own missteps. In this regard, we reiterate our strong call for the immediate and unconditional release of the representatives of the United Nations and national and international non- governmental organizations, as well as the members of civil society and the diplomatic corps. The situation in Yemen demands our continued attention. Developments throughout the country, as well as changes in the political landscape, should prompt us to identify areas for cooperation, through the Special Envoy, that will strengthen the coordination of international efforts and ensure the preservation of national response plans, the internationally recognized political framework and the Stockholm Agreements. We also reiterate the importance of addressing the aspirations and needs of the South in order to strengthen regional unity, a fundamental element in advancing towards sustainable and inclusive peace.

At the outset, I would like to thank Special Envoy of the Secretary-General Hans Grundberg and Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Director Lisa Doughten for their briefings. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of Yemen in today’s meeting. First, France reaffirms its commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity. It fully supports the efforts, led by the legitimate Government, to consolidate the Yemeni State. Following the December crisis, priority must be given to stabilizing the country and strengthening the Yemeni Government. In this regard, France welcomes the formation of the new Government. The inclusion of young people and women is a remarkable step towards diverse national representation, reflecting Yemeni society. This new Government must be able to work to strengthen the country’s stability and security and 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 an inclusive dialogue in Saudi Arabia to resolve the issue of southern Yemen, as announced by President Al-Alimi. Secondly, France demands the immediate and unconditional release of all United Nations, non-governmental organization and diplomatic mission personnel arbitrarily detained by the Houthis. We honour the memory of the World Food Programme employee who died in detention almost a year ago to the day, on 10 February 2025. France condemns in the strongest possible terms the death sentences handed down by the so-called Houthi Specialized Criminal Court. The repeated seizure of equipment and occupation of the offices of several United Nations agencies is unacceptable. These acts, which run counter to international law, jeopardize the safety of personnel and hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid needed by the Yemeni people. The Houthis’ unacceptable behaviour is an obstacle to any progress on the humanitarian front. Thirdly, the Houthis must cease their policy of destabilization in Yemen and the region. The movement continues to threaten the region and maritime traffic with aggressive rhetoric. Given the Houthis’ stance and the regional context, the risk of further escalation remains. France will continue its commitment to maritime security and freedom of navigation as part of the European Union Naval Force Operation Aspides defensive security and defence policy operation, in accordance with international law and in conjunction with its European and international partners. Finally, France reaffirms its full support for the work of the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, whose efforts are essential. It calls on all Yemeni parties to engage in good faith in the resumption of a political process under the auspices of the United Nations, the only framework capable of guaranteeing lasting peace.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of the United Kingdom. I thank Special Envoy Grundberg and Director Doughten for their briefings today, and I welcome the participation of the representative of Yemen in our meeting. First, I would like to start by welcoming the announcement of the new Government of Yemen and commend the leadership of Minister Zindani and the Presidential Leadership Council. This marks an important step for Yemen and an opportunity for important economic, governance and security reforms. The United Kingdom fully supports the Government’s efforts to advance security, stability and prosperity for the Yemeni people. We would like, in particular, to welcome the three new women ministers in the Cabinet. An inclusive Government is vital for lasting progress. Secondly, following the adoption of resolution 2813 (2026), we remain closely engaged on the orderly and safe drawdown of United Nations personnel and assets, as the United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement in Yemen closes. We look forward to the Special Envoy’s continued efforts to deliver on the Organization’s commitments under the Hudaydah Agreement. Thirdly, Yemen remains one of the most acute humanitarian crises in the world, as we heard today, with 22 million people in need of assistance, spiralling food insecurity and the potential collapse of the primary healthcare system. We need to act collectively and urgently to galvanize efforts to address these needs. Finally, we heard again today in the Council, the unequivocal call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained by the Houthis. The United Kingdom strongly condemns the death sentences issued by the Houthi authorities and the continued detention of aid workers. These actions violate fundamental rights and due process. They also shrink the operational space for non-governmental organizations, which is vital to supporting Yemenis who remain in desperate need. They must be released. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of Yemen.

At the outset, I would like to congratulate you, Mr. President, on your assumption of the presidency of the Council this month. I would also like to thank your predecessor, the Permanent Representative of the sister Republic of Somalia, for his successful presidency last month. I thank Mr. Hans Grundberg and Ms. Lisa Doughten for their briefings. I address the Council today at another new stage in the conditions in Yemen. Work is ongoing to bolster stability and security and to focus all of our efforts to restore the State and its institutions and to alleviate the humanitarian suffering caused by the Iranian regime-backed Houthi terrorist militias. In recent weeks, the Yemeni Government has made tangible progress in unifying security and military decision-making and improving basic services, including addressing the electricity crisis and paying the salaries of civil and military employees, with the support of our brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Significant progress has also been made in ending the militarization of cities, a step that had stalled for years. In addition, all illegal prisons have been closed. The National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations to Human Rights — an internationally backed independent mechanism — has conducted field work as it carried out its duties. Moreover, the Yemeni Government took practical measures to enhance the efficiency of ports and airports and ensure that they are managed in accordance with international standards, thereby contributing to the flow of humanitarian aid and commercial imports that millions of Yemenis desperately need. The Yemeni Government is well aware that these gains will remain fragile as long as funds and weapons continue to be smuggled to rogue groups and as long as the Houthi militias continue to usurp State institutions and hold the interests of the Yemeni people hostage to the Iranian regime’s expansionist schemes in the region. We reiterate that the Houthi militias continue to pose the most serious and greatest threat to the security and stability of Yemen, the region and the world, and to international navigation. The peace we seek cannot be built with militias that see war, chaos and destruction as a means of survival. In this regard, we reaffirm the Yemeni Government’s full commitment to strengthening its close strategic partnership with the international community to counter common threats, combat terrorism and organized crime, and protect international navigation. The new Yemeni Government led by His Excellency Mr. Shaya Mohsin Zindani, which was formed under exceptional and complex circumstances, bears a clear message of promoting broader national partnership. For the first time in years, Yemeni women are participating in this Government with three ministerial portfolios, as part of a formula of competence and fair representation — an important entitlement that had long been deferred. In this phase, the Government will work to build on what has been achieved in terms of recovery plans and economic, financial and administrative reforms; support the independence of the Central Bank; protect the national currency; create effective institutions; strengthen the rule of law; reinforce regulatory bodies; and provide basic services to citizens in various regions of Yemen. This Government’s successful performance of its tasks requires continued political, economic and technical support from the international community. That includes support for carrying out institutional reform efforts, improving the state of the economy and of services, alleviating human suffering and promoting a comprehensive and sustainable peace process. We highly appreciate the unwavering generous support and the steadfast solidarity of our brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who have continued to stand with the Yemeni people and their legitimate Government in their efforts to achieve economic stability and alleviate humanitarian suffering. We also appreciate the Kingdom’s effective interventions in the development and humanitarian sectors, enabling the Government to fulfil its commitments and giving strong impetus to the reform and economic recovery process. This support is a fundamental pillar in the most difficult circumstances and reflects the Kingdom’s sincere desire to see peace, development and stability emerge in Yemen. The southern issue is the top priority of the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni Government, and we appreciate the generous support of our brothers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the Southern Dialogue Conference, which will constitute a responsible political track and a necessity for addressing this issue, as a just national political issue that cannot be overlooked or denied and that can only be addressed through dialogue and consensus, without exclusion or marginalization. On more than one occasion, the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni Government have affirmed their commitment to the path of peace, in accordance with the terms of reference for a political solution, foremost among them resolution 2216 (2015). Unfortunately, over the past years the Houthi militias have thwarted all regional, international and United Nations efforts to establish peace and end the conflict. This state of affairs requires effective action towards an international approach that differs from the policy of containment that characterized the handling of the Houthi militias’ behaviour and threats during the previous phase. That approach must include a transition from managing the crisis to contributing to its resolution. It must also empower the Yemeni Government, its institutions and its sovereignty through practical steps and close partnership, equipping it with stronger tools to exercise its authority over the entire Yemeni territory, enabling it to play its role and help to achieve regional and international security and stability and to fulfil the interests and aspirations of the Yemeni people. Supporting the Yemeni State economically, politically and in terms of security is a direct investment in the security and stability of the region and the world. As we approach the holy month of Ramadan, Yemenis are turning their attention to the meeting of the Supervisory Committee for the Implementation of the Stockholm Agreement on Detainees, which began in Amman a few days ago under the auspices of the United Nations. Allow me to thank both the Sultanate of Oman and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for generously hosting these consultations. We also highly appreciate the United Nations-led efforts on this important humanitarian issue. We reaffirm the Yemeni Government’s determination to ensure the success of this humanitarian process and its firm position on ending the suffering of thousands of Yemeni families and completing the implementation of the prisoner exchange agreement and the release of all prisoners and abductees, in accordance with the all-for-all principle and without restrictions or conditions, as stipulated in the Stockholm Agreement. We call for pressure to be exerted on the Houthi militias to release all detainees and abductees, including journalists, prisoners of conscience, politicians and academics, and to stop creating obstacles in relation to this humanitarian issue. We hope that this important step will lay the groundwork for closing this humanitarian file and for building the trust necessary for any comprehensive peace process in Yemen. We also caution the Houthi militias against issuing death sentences against dozens of abductees, including employees of international organizations, United Nations agencies and diplomatic missions, in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and in defiance of the appeals of the international community and the Council. In conclusion, we are in favour of peace, but we want a peace that ends this conflict and establishes a secure and stable future in Yemen, the region and the world. Yemen’s stability and security are no longer just a Yemeni interest, but a shared regional and international interest. This desired peace is forged by strong will, not wishful thinking, and our will is firm and unwavering in achieving a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace that meets the aspirations of our people.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion on the subject.