UK Vows to Hold Houthis Accountable
The United Kingdom has thrown its weight behind the United Nations’ decision to suspend humanitarian operations in Yemen’s Houthi-held Saada Governorate, citing “grave risks” to aid workers and systemic obstruction by the Iran-backed militia.
Ambassador James Kariuki, the UK’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, delivered a scathing condemnation of Houthi abuses during a Security Council session on Yemen, linking the group’s actions to a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.
Houthi Detentions and Aid Worker Deaths Spark Outrage
Kariuki opened by applauding the Council’s unified condemnation of Houthi detentions, including the tragic death of a World Food Programme (WFP) staffer in custody. “Continued Council unity sends an unequivocal message: Release all detainees immediately and unconditionally,” he declared. The UK envoy emphasized that the UN’s pause in Saada—a Houthi stronghold—is a direct response to the militia’s “relentless threats” against humanitarian personnel, who face kidnappings, bureaucratic hurdles, and violence.
The suspension compounds existing crises worsened by climate change, with Kariuki noting that “water scarcity and food insecurity are now weaponized by conflict.” A morning press briefing by UN officials, including remarks from Ms. Ali of OCHA, echoed concerns over Houthi restrictions strangling aid to 21 million Yemenis in need.
Weapons Intercepted, Iran Accused of Fueling War
In a significant revelation, Kariuki highlighted the Yemeni Coast Guard’s recent interception of a dhow smuggling advanced Iranian-made weapon components—including missile parts and drones—to Houthi-controlled Hodeida port. “This is irrefutable proof of Tehran’s destabilizing role,” he stated, condemning Iran’s “blatant violation” of the UN arms embargo under Resolution 2216.
The UK renewed calls for global enforcement of the embargo and urged the international community to bolster the UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism (UNVIM), tasked with blocking illicit arms flows. “UNVIM is Yemen’s lifeline against smuggled weapons. It must be fully funded,” Kariuki insisted.
Maritime Security Push and Path to Peace
Amid rising Red Sea tensions, the UK announced plans to launch the Yemen Maritime Security Partnership later this year, collaborating with Yemen’s government and allies to strengthen coastal defenses. The initiative aims to empower Yemen’s Coast Guard to combat smuggling and piracy, critical steps toward stabilizing trade routes.
Kariuki reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to a UN-led political solution, pledging unwavering support for Special Envoy Hans Grundberg’s efforts. “There is no military fix to this conflict. Only an inclusive, Yemeni-owned process can bring lasting peace,” he asserted.