Call for Human Rights and Peacebuilding
Ambassador Woodward stressed the importance of respecting and protecting the human rights of all Yemenis, including women and girls, in accordance with international law.
She urged for renewed efforts towards peacebuilding, with a strong focus on the involvement of civil society and women’s rights organizations. This approach is seen as crucial for paving the way for a secure future for all Yemenis.
International Response to Houthi Actions
The statement comes amid heightened international concern over Houthi actions in the Red Sea. In December 2023, the US announced the formation of an international maritime coalition, Operation Prosperity Guardian, to support freedom of navigation, with over 20 countries, including the UK, participating.
The UN Security Council adopted resolution 2722 (2024) on 10 January 2024, condemning Houthi attacks and affirming the right to freedom of navigation, while also emphasizing the arms embargo against the Houthis.
Statistics and Actions
- 44 states, including NATO and EU members, condemned Houthi interference with freedom of navigation in December 2023.
- The UK and US conducted strikes against Houthi targets on 11 January, 22 January, 3 February, and 24 February 2024.
- The UK has deployed three ships to the region as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian.
Leadership Response
Yemen will only prosper when all Yemenis can play their role in building a better future for their country.
Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN.
The UK’s stance reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that all segments of Yemeni society are involved in the peace process and the rebuilding of the country.
Progress and Targets
- The UK has set four priorities for its involvement in the Red Sea: diplomatic efforts to support de-escalation, enforcing the arms embargo against the Houthis, implementing new sanctions, and continuing aid to Yemen.
- The UN has extended the mandate of the Panel of Experts supporting the 2140 Yemen Sanctions Committee until 15 December 2025.
- The goal remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea.
Local and Regional Situation
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has had devastating effects on the local population, particularly women, girls, and marginalized groups. Humanitarian workers face significant risks, with recent detentions of UN and NGO staff by the Houthis.
The UK and other international partners are calling for the immediate and unconditional release of these detainees and emphasizing the need for unimpeded access to civilian populations by humanitarian actors.
Immediate Implications
The UK’s statement underscores the urgent need for a peaceful and inclusive solution to the Yemen conflict. The immediate release of detained humanitarian workers and the protection of human rights are critical steps towards this goal.
Broader Significance
The international community’s response to the situation in Yemen highlights the importance of collective action in maintaining global security and upholding international law.
The involvement of multiple countries in Operation Prosperity Guardian and the consistent condemnation of Houthi actions by the UN Security Council demonstrate a unified commitment to stability in the region.
