Yemen’s UN envoy discusses with Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago support for peace efforts and implementation of Security Council resolutions.

Yemen’s Permanent Representative Discusses Peace Efforts with Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago

Yemen’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Abdullah Al-Saadi, engaged in discussions with the permanent representatives of Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago regarding the current political, economic, humanitarian, and security situations in Yemen. The talks also addressed the implications of the ongoing military escalation by the Iran-backed Houthi militia and explored ways to enhance cooperation and coordination during the upcoming terms of both countries on the UN Security Council for the period of 2027-2028.

Recent Houthi Attacks Highlight Security Concerns

During the meetings, Ambassador Al-Saadi reviewed the recent Houthi attacks targeting Aden and Al-Riyan international airports, the presidential palace in the temporary capital of Aden, and residential areas in the provinces of Marib, Taiz, and Lahij. He also mentioned an assault on a training camp for security personnel in Shabwa province. These attacks resulted in casualties and significant damage, posing a direct threat to civilians, state institutions, and civil infrastructure.

Escalating Threats to Peace and Stability

Al-Saadi emphasized that this dangerous escalation undermines peace efforts and threatens security and stability in Yemen and the broader region. He pointed out the ongoing Houthi threats to international navigation in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait, as well as assaults on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Call for Action from the UN Security Council

The ambassador stressed the need for the UN Security Council to take practical measures to ensure the full implementation of its relevant resolutions, particularly Resolutions 2140 and 2216. He urged the international community to enhance efforts to prevent the flow of weapons, missiles, drones, and their components to the Houthi militia and to cut off its funding sources.

Humanitarian Crisis in Taiz

Al-Saadi highlighted the severe deterioration of the humanitarian situation, especially in Taiz city, due to the ongoing Houthi siege, road closures, and obstruction of essential aid and supplies. He noted the worsening internal displacement crisis and the increasing pressures on host communities.

Urgent International Action Needed

He called for urgent and coordinated international action to end the siege of Taiz, protect civilians, and ensure unhindered access to humanitarian assistance. Additionally, he urged for mobilizing the necessary funding to meet the growing humanitarian needs.

Violations Against Humanitarian Workers

The ambassador addressed the ongoing violations committed by the Houthi militia against humanitarian operations, including the arbitrary detention of UN staff, humanitarian workers, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions. He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees and accountability for those responsible for these violations.

Support for Peace Efforts

Al-Saadi affirmed the important role that Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago can play during their upcoming membership in the Security Council to support sustainable peace and security efforts in Yemen and the region. He expressed the Yemeni government’s eagerness to enhance cooperation and coordination with both countries to support peace efforts, implement Security Council resolutions, and uphold Yemen’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity.

Solidarity from Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago

In response, the permanent representatives of Portugal and Trinidad and Tobago reiterated their full solidarity with the Yemeni people and government. They affirmed their support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, expressing their readiness to work with other Security Council members to push for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the Yemeni crisis.

To follow the news in Arabic