Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.
First, we welcome the visits and continuing efforts of both WHO Director-General Tedros and Special Envoy Grundberg to secure the release of detainees.
We are deeply concerned about claims of Houthis further arbitrary and unlawful detentions of Yemeni citizens.
We call on this Council to unite in condemning Houthi detentions in the strongest terms and demand that the Houthis immediately and unconditionally release all those detained, enabling a safe operating environment for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those most in need.
This is more important than ever with nearly 20 million Yemenis now in need of assistance, as Ms Msuya spelled out so starkly for us.
Second, the UK will continue to support Freedom of Navigation including in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden and we look forward to the extension later today of the mandate of UNSCR 2722.
The UK condemns the ongoing and reckless Houthi attacks against Israeli population centres.
We are clear on Israel's right to self-defence against these attacks.
But this must be done in compliance with Israel's international humanitarian law obligations, including the need to avoid damage to critical civilian infrastructure such as Hodeidah port, the main entry point for food and humanitarian supplies into Yemen.
Third, the UK is resolute in our support to the Government of Yemen and that is why we are co-hosting an event this month to galvanise international support for the Government as the legitimate representatives of the Yemeni people, and in order to promote stability and stable governance.
Yemen can only truly prosper, when all Yemenis are able to play their role in building a better future for their country.
Finally, President, on the occasion of General Beary's final briefing to this Council I would like to commend his efforts in support of UNMHA and the Yemeni people in Hodeidah Governorate. I thank him for his service.
