Statement by Ambassador , UK Permanent
Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on
Yemen.
First, we welcome the visits and continuing efforts of both WHO
Director-General Tedros and Special Envoy Grundberg to secure the
release of detainees.
We are deeply concerned about claims of Houthis further arbitrary
and unlawful detentions of Yemeni citizens.
We call on this Council to unite in condemning Houthi detentions
in the strongest terms and demand that the Houthis immediately
and unconditionally release all those detained, enabling a safe
operating environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance
to those most in need.
This is more important than ever with nearly 20 million Yemenis
now in need of assistance, as Ms Msuya spelled out so starkly for
us.
Second, the UK will continue to support Freedom of Navigation
including in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden and we look forward
to the extension later today of the mandate of UNSCR 2722.
The UK condemns the ongoing and reckless Houthi attacks against
Israeli population centres.
We are clear on Israel's right to self-defence against these
attacks.
But this must be done in compliance with Israel's international
humanitarian law obligations, including the need to avoid damage
to critical civilian infrastructure such as Hodeidah port, the
main entry point for food and humanitarian supplies into
Yemen.
Third, the UK is resolute in our support to the Government of
Yemen and that is why we are co-hosting an event this month to
galvanise international support for the Government as the
legitimate representatives of the Yemeni people, and in order to
promote stability and stable governance.
Yemen can only truly prosper, when all Yemenis are able to play
their role in building a better future for their country.
Finally, President, on the occasion of General Beary's final
briefing to this Council I would like to commend his efforts in
support of UNMHA and the Yemeni people in Hodeidah Governorate. I
thank him for his service.
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