9 July 2025
Mr. President,
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3+ namely—Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone, and my own country, Somalia.
We thank today’s briefers—Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, and USG Tom Fletcher for their valuable updates, and take note of the contribution of Ms. Summer Nasser. We also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Yemen in this meeting.
Mr. President,
On the security front, the A3+ is deeply concerned by recent developments in Yemen and the broader region. The recent escalation between the Houthis and Israel is especially alarming, and will have far-reaching implications for international peace. We condemn all violations of international law, and stress that these tensions are closely linked to the unresolved conflict in Gaza. We also underscore the need to secure an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, not only will this alleviate the suffering in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, but will prevent further escalations and spillovers across the region.
We welcome and encourage continued diplomatic efforts, particularly by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar to secure an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza. The Council must support all genuine efforts towards de-escalation and stability. Sustained international support for such initiatives is essential for broader de-escalation and for restoring a credible political process in Yemen.
The recently reported Houthi attacks on commercial shipping, risk undoing months of maritime calm and threaten global trade.
The A3+ expresses concern regarding the renewed airstrikes conducted by Israel over the course of 6-7 July in Hudaydah Governorate. Such actions endanger the lives of civilians and raise the prospect of a wider conflict. We urge Israel to cease further provocations and recommit to de-escalation.
The A3+ stresses the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect civilians and reduce tensions in Yemen. All parties must uphold international humanitarian law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, and take steps to prevent civilian harm and the militarization of populated areas.
We commend the continued engagement that has yielded tangible outcomes such as the reopening of roads, the resolution of local disputes through direct dialogue, and the use of coordination channels established under the 2022 truce.
We welcome the agreement reached between the Local Water and Sanitation Corporations in Taiz City and Al-Hawban to jointly manage water supply systems. This constructive step contributes to the restoration of essential services and alleviates the suffering of affected populations in one of Yemen’s most water-stressed governorates.
Mr. President,
Humanitarian and health conditions in Yemen remain grave. The spread of malaria, dengue, and cholera is overwhelming the healthcare system. We thus echo OCHA’s appeal for immediate international support, and urge for safe and unhindered humanitarian access across Yemen. Failure to act risks catastrophic consequences for millions, especially people in vulnerable situations.
Moreover, the worsening food security situation, especially in Aden, Lahj, Marib, and Taizz due to reduced food availability and limited access, demand urgent attention. We urge the international community to urgently scale up humanitarian support to Yemen, to prevent widespread hunger in light of the latest IPC projection for September 2025 and February 2026 where 52% of the country’s population is expected to face Phase 3 or above levels of food insecurity.
The A3+ fully supports the Special Envoy’s efforts to facilitate a Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political process, in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions. Only an inclusive political solution can bring lasting peace to Yemen.
We join the Secretary-General in calling on the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release all UN and humanitarian personnel being detained in violation of international law.
Mr. President,
In conclusion, the A3+ stands in solidarity with the people of Yemen. We urge all parties to demonstrate restraint, commit to peace, and engage in constructive dialogue. We call on this Council to support and protect Yemen’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and recognize the tireless efforts of Special Envoy Grundberg and regional actors, notably Saudi Arabia and Oman.
I thank you.