Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent
Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on
Yemen.
"First, last Friday marked one year since the Houthis' arbitrary
detention of personnel from the United Nations, national and
international NGOs, civil society organisations and diplomatic
missions.
As of today, 23 UN and five INGO personnel remain arbitrarily
detained. These dedicated humanitarian workers have now been
separated from their family and loved ones for over a year, and
for some, over 1000 days.
2025 has also seen the tragic death of a World Food Programme
member of staff in Houthi captivity. And yet, these detentions
have continued, including the recent detention of journalists and
media workers.
The Secretary General's statement on the anniversary of the
detentions and the briefing we heard today from Special Envoy
Grundberg highlight the profound injustice of these detentions.
The individuals have dedicated their lives to providing
life-saving assistance and support to the people of Yemen.
Following a further press statement on 5 June, we, as a Security
Council, have been unequivocal in condemning these ongoing
unlawful detentions and in calling for the immediate and
unconditional release of those detained.
The UK welcomes the vital work of the United Nations and other
partners towards securing their immediate release.
Second, President, 19.5 million people are in need of
humanitarian assistance and 4.8 million are internally displaced
in Yemen.
This dire situation will get worse, with increases in food
insecurity and malnutrition projected this year, compounded by
disease outbreaks.
The funding shortfall, ongoing detentions and challenging
operating space exacerbate these challenges. So we must continue
to work together and prioritise our collective response to ensure
humanitarian aid reaches those most in need.
The UK recently enrolled in a joint programme with King Salman
Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, targeting the spread of
cholera across Yemen.
This programme will provide cholera vaccines and help strengthen
local response capacity in the most high-risk and affected
communities.
Finally, the UK remains committed to achieving lasting peace in
Yemen and the broader region. Long-term stability and security in
Yemen can only be achieved by a UN-led, inclusive political
settlement. And we continue to support Special Envoy Grundberg in
his efforts in this regard."
