Statement by Ambassador Mohamed Yusuf, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Somalia to the United Nations, on behalf of the A3+, at the United Nations Security Council briefing on Yemen

Mr. President,

I am honored to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3+, namely Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone, and my own country, Somalia. We express our gratitude to Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher for their valuable updates on the latest developments in Yemen. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of Yemen to this meeting.

The A3+ reiterates its unwavering support for UN-led and regional mediation efforts, including those spearheaded by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, aimed at achieving a Yemeni-owned and Yemeni-led political resolution to the conflict. A sustainable and inclusive peace process, with the meaningful engagement of all stakeholders, including women and youth, remains vital in responding to the aspirations of the Yemeni people.

Mr. President,

The recent developments in Yemen highlight both progress and challenges. The A3+ welcomes the release of the crew members of the Galaxy Leader, who had been held by the Houthis since November 2023. Their release marked a positive step for the UN staff and other humanitarian personnel in the efforts to build confidence and facilitate broader de-escalation efforts. However, the A3+ is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a WFP staff member, who died while in detention since January 23, 2025. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues at WFP, and stand in solidarity with all arbitrarily detained UN personnel and their loved ones.

The recent detention of additional UN staff is also deeply distressing. The A3+ demands the immediate and unconditional release of all UN, NGOs, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions’ staff arbitrarily detained in Yemen, in accordance with international law and relevant international agreements. Furthermore, we insist that the Houthis cease all such illegal activities which undermine peace efforts and contribute to instability in the country. We urge the parties in Yemen to focus on the following key priorities:

First, we are deeply concerned about the continued threats and unlawful arrests and detention of UN personnel by the Houthis, resulting in the suspension of UN Humanitarian activities in territories controlled by them. The security and humanitarian situation in Yemen remains fragile with OCHA reporting that over half the population need humanitarian assistance and protection services, including in Houthi-controlled Saada, which has a population of over 1 million people. While we recognize efforts to improve humanitarian conditions, we emphasize the urgent need for unhindered access to aid across all regions.

Second, we reiterate our concerns about the continued attacks on Commercial and Maritime vessels in the Red Sea; The Houthi attacks in the Red Sea threaten global shipping and undermine regional stability. Such actions not only endanger international trade but also pose severe risks to the marine ecosystem. We call on the Houthis to permanently cease these hostile activities and urge all parties to exercise restraint to prevent a broader regional crisis. Maritime security must remain a priority, and we support all diplomatic efforts to safeguard the Red Sea as a zone of peace and cooperation.

Third, the Impact of External Military Actions; the A3+ is concerned about the increasing external military interventions in Yemen, including Israeli airstrikes and the wider ramifications of the Gaza conflict. These actions undermine peace efforts and further destabilize an already fragile situation. We urge all external actors to respect Yemen’s sovereignty and refrain from military escalations. We also emphasize the importance of upholding the ceasefire in Gaza, as it will undoubtedly contribute to the de-escalation of tensions and foster a conducive environment for achieving a lasting and sustainable peace in the broader region.

Lastly, Addressing Food Insecurity and Economic Hardship; The humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues to be exacerbated by food shortages and economic instability, with significant depreciation and rising inflation. According to recent reports, nearly half of the population— approximately 17 million people—will face severe food insecurity in 2025. Urgent and sustained international support is required to address this crisis. Noting that despite tremendous security and logistical challenges, humanitarian aid organizations were able to support over 8 million Yemenis last year, we call for increased funding for the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan. We also stress the need for sustainable economic recovery mechanisms to support Yemen’s long-term stability.

Mr. President,

The A3+ firmly believes that a stable and peaceful Yemen is critical for broader regional security. We continue to advocate for a Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned peace process under UN auspices, and we urge all parties to prioritize dialogue over confrontation.

In this regard, we reaffirm our support for Special Envoy Grundberg’s mediation efforts and encourage all actors to engage constructively in confidence-building measures. Similarly, we emphasize the need for continued international support in addressing Yemen’s humanitarian and economic challenges. Overturning the significant economic decline in Yemen after thirteen years of conflict requires first and foremost a commitment by all Yemeni actors to peace, as well as support from regional and international partners.

In conclusion, the A3+ underscores the critical importance of maintaining momentum toward a comprehensive and inclusive peace process. The people of Yemen have suffered for far too long. Now is the time for the international community to redouble its efforts and stand united in pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous future for Yemen.

I thank you.