Yemen: Statement During Briefing

Thank you, Mr. President,

I thank Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Director of Operations, Reena Ghelani for their briefings. I also welcome the participation of the representatives of Yemen and Saudi Arabia.

Mr. President, last month, a passenger bus fell off a cliff while navigating through Houthi checkpoints around Taiz. It left three passengers dead and 22 others injured. This was a painful reminder to fully re-open the roads in Taiz currently controlled by the Houthis.

The Houthis have also recently targeted civilian infrastructure including the Al Dhaba oil terminal in Hadhramout and, Qana and Al Nashima ports in Shabwa. We condemn these disruptive acts which are in violation of international humanitarian law. They also heighten and perpetuate tensions that could lead to a resumption of hostilities.

The objective of the Houthis may be to deny the government of much needed revenue from oil derivatives. But they must realise that those suffering most from their actions are innocent Yemenis including the most vulnerable being women, children, and people with disabilities.

The reported interception of a vessel smuggling 70 tons of ammonium perchlorate – a substance used to make rocket and missile fuel as well as explosives, suspected to be bound for Yemen is an indicator that Yemen could be a base to destabilise the entire region. We call for urgent and independent investigations into this serious matter and necessary action be taken against those responsible.

Mr. President, the truce was an opportunity for the parties to set aside their individual narrow interests; prioritise the wider interest of their country and the people; and, engage in a Yemeni-led and owned process facilitated by the Special Envoy, for a sustainable political solution.

As we have said before, now is not the time to escalate tensions or reactivate frontlines. There is too much at stake. And an eruption of another cycle of violence would lead to further civilian casualties, internal displacement, and disruption of the much-needed humanitarian assistance and access.

Mr. President, with three quarters of Yemenis relying on agriculture and livestock for their survival, the climate crisis is pushing communities already reeling from the effects of a prolonged conflict. Yemeni farmers have seen it all. If it is not protracted conflict destroying their livelihoods, it is extreme drought. And if its not drought, it is flooding.

Therefore, even as we address the immediate humanitarian concerns, there is an urgent need to consider long term solutions and pragmatic approaches, including investing in climate resistant agriculture to improve food security and encourage self-reliance.

We remain deeply concerned over the presence of landmines and other explosive remnants and their destructive impact on civilians including women and children. We urge for increased demining action in all the affected areas, prompt facilitation of necessary equipment used in demining activities and support to the victims.

We continue to monitor progress on the Safer tanker and appreciate the generous contributions made to date. We hope the emergency operation can commence as soon as possible.

To conclude, Kenya reaffirms its solidarity with the people of Yemen in their desire and quest for a comprehensive and lasting peace and stability.

I thank you.