We call for the immediate release of UN aid workers in Yemen: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Wednesday, 11 December 2024 16:09

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen. "I will make four points. First, Mr Al-Omeisy, thank you for sharing your harrowing story and for your courage. Your first-hand experience of detention by the Houthis highlights the utmost and fundamental importance of the Security Council clearly and unanimously condemning detentions of Yemeni staff working for the United Nations, for...Request free trial

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.

"I will make four points.

First, Mr Al-Omeisy, thank you for sharing your harrowing story and for your courage. Your first-hand experience of detention by the Houthis highlights the utmost and fundamental importance of the Security Council clearly and unanimously condemning detentions of Yemeni staff working for the United Nations, for international and national aid organisations. And we regret that this has so far not been possible.

For our part, the UK is clear and unequivocal in our call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained. Aid workers, as you made so clear, must be able to support vulnerable Yemenis without fear of unjustified detention or intimidation.

Secondly, the arms embargo, as implemented by UNSC Resolution 2216, is essential to prevent the illicit transfer of weapons into Yemen.

So we must enforce compliance with this Resolution and we call for Member States to increase funding to strengthen UNVIM. We also welcome the launch of the Yemen Coast Guard Strategy to strengthen arms control and maritime security.

Thirdly, the depreciation of the Yemeni Rial continues to threaten Yemen's economic stability and food security, with dire humanitarian consequences.

The Government of Yemen requires consistent, stable international support to improve institutional resilience and collaboration as you referenced, Mr Al-Omeisy.

So the UK calls on the international community to ensure the Government of Yemen is enabled to continue economic and capacity-building to best support the needs of the Yemeni people.

Finally, we welcome the Council's constructive engagement behind the efforts of the UN and Special Envoy Grundberg, which has included the unanimous adoption of the renewal of the mandates for both the UN Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement, UNMHA, and the 2140 Sanctions Regime.

Finally Madam President, we remain committed to supporting the Envoy's work to deliver an inclusive and sustainable peace in Yemen."