Yemen warns of the continued acquisition of weapons and military technology by the Houthi militia, urging full implementation of relevant Security Council resolutions.

Yemen Warns of Houthi Militias’ Access to Advanced Military Technology

The Republic of Yemen has issued a warning regarding the dangers posed by the continued acquisition of advanced military weapons and dual-use technologies by the Iran-backed Houthi militia. This situation undermines international sanctions and threatens maritime security and regional stability.

Concerns Raised at the United Nations

During a high-level open discussion at the United Nations Security Council on “Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security,” Yemen’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Abdullah Al-Saadi, emphasized that current threats do not stem from technological advancements themselves. Instead, they arise from the misuse of these technologies by armed groups to carry out cross-border attacks.

Call for Effective Implementation of Security Council Resolutions

The Yemeni government reiterated its call for the full and effective implementation of Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolutions 2140 and 2216. It urged for stricter measures to prevent the supply or transfer of weapons, missiles, drones, and dual-use technologies to the Houthi militia. Additionally, it called for accountability for individuals and entities violating the arms embargo.

Risks in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait

Yemen highlighted that recent developments in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait exemplify the risks associated with the transfer of advanced military technologies to armed groups. Iranian support has enabled the Houthis to enhance their offensive capabilities and expand their attacks on commercial vessels and international navigation using ballistic missiles, drones, and explosive-laden boats.

Impact on Global Trade and Maritime Safety

The Houthi attacks have not only threatened the lives of sailors and ship crews but have also disrupted global trade, jeopardized supply chains, and endangered energy and food security. The targeting of commercial vessels and incidents such as the sinking of the “Rubymar,” “Magic Seas,” and “Eternity Sea” illustrate the extent of these risks.

Strengthening International Partnerships

Yemen stressed the importance of enhancing international partnerships with the Yemeni government, which serves as the primary national partner in safeguarding maritime security in Yemeni territorial waters and securing the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This includes supporting coast guard operations, developing monitoring and early warning systems, and improving information sharing to combat smuggling and prevent the flow of weapons to the Houthi militia.

Regional and International Cooperation

Yemen also called for strengthened regional and international cooperation, building on existing mechanisms such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct and the United Nations Verification and Inspection Mechanism. These efforts aim to address the emerging threats posed by the misuse of advanced technologies.

Acknowledgment of Global Security Threats

In conclusion, the Republic of Yemen asserted that its experience demonstrates that the access of advanced military technologies to armed groups is no longer just a local or regional threat. It has become a direct danger to international maritime security, freedom of navigation, and global trade. Yemen urged for the full implementation of Security Council resolutions and increased international support to enhance its national capabilities in maritime security.

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