FCDO statement on the situation in Yemen: 10 September

Statement regarding the situation in Yemen and in response to recent Houthi actions.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis' decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, including the targeting of civilian and energy infrastructure.

We offer our condolences to those injured and affected and stand with Saudi Arabia, the internationally recognised Government of Yemen, and our regional partners.

The Houthis bear full responsibility for this crisis. Their decision to restart conflict in Yemen puts the most vulnerable Yemeni citizens at further risk and has directly deepened humanitarian suffering amongst those most in need in Yemen.

Houthi attacks endanger wider regional stability, and freedom of navigation and vital trade routes through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.

We are clear that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Yemen have the right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law. The UK is working with partners to support regional stability, protect civilians and maintain and support humanitarian access in Yemen.

We call on the Houthis to cease their attacks and escalation immediately.