August 15, 2024
I would like to thank Hans Grundberg and Lisa Doughten for their presentations. I would also like to welcome the presence among us of the Permanent Representative of Yemen.
Mr. President,
Faced with rising tensions in the Middle East, this Council must do everything it can to avoid a regional conflagration.
In this context, the Houthis must immediately cease their destabilizing activities in the region, which they are continuing on a daily basis in violation of the fundamental principles of international law, as indicated by the UNSG’s report. France reiterates its strong condemnation of the drone attack on Tel Aviv on the night of July 18-19, claimed by the Houthis. They continue to fuel the regional escalation for which they bear a heavy responsibility, including in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, flouting the resolutions adopted by this Council.
Yet this Council has clearly condemned these attacks, notably by adopting resolutions 2722 and 2739. States have the right to defend their vessels against these attacks, in accordance with international law. We call upon the Houthis to put an end to these attacks and immediately release the Galaxy Leader and its crew, who have been held since November 2023. France also calls upon Iran to cease its support for destabilizing actions in the region.
France reiterates its commitment to regional stability and the security of its partners in the region. It will pursue its commitment within the framework of the European ASPIDES operation to guarantee maritime safety and freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law and together with its partners.
The Houthis are also responsible for the deterioration of the humanitarian situation and the suffering of the Yemeni population, due to the many hindrances they impose on humanitarian operations. We also condemn the assault on the OHCHR office by the Houthis, and the arbitrary detentions of its staff, as well as those of local and international NGOs. These detentions are contrary to international humanitarian law. France firmly condemns these actions and demands their immediate release. These unfounded arrests also have consequences for the delivery of aid and the work of humanitarian actors, who are already subject to numerous restrictions in Houthi-controlled territory, to the detriment of the civilian population. The Houthis must stop committing atrocities against their own population, whom they economically suffocate and threaten on a daily basis. It is unacceptable that the United Nations be forced to revise its operations and limit its actions in response to these threats. Humanitarian workers must be able to carry out their operations safely and without hindrance.
Civilians depend on humanitarian aid. France is concerned about the recent floods, worsening food insecurity and spreading cholera epidemic, which have added to the challenges facing Yemenis.
Mr. President,
On the security front, we must achieve a complete and sustainable cessation of hostilities, to avoid any resumption of conflict on the ground.
The Houthis must return to the negotiation process led by the Special Envoy, which France fully supports in the implementation of his political roadmap. The effective participation of Yemeni women in the negotiations must be guaranteed.
Thank you.