Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 17, 2025 Peace and security
Tensions in Yemen continue to escalate, and recent events increase the risk of further escalation and fragmentation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres made this statement to journalists in New York following his briefing to the Security Council on the situation in the country.
"Tensions have been escalating throughout Yemen for some time now. Dramatic new developments in the eastern provinces are adding fuel to the fire," he said.
The Secretary-General recalled that earlier this month, forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council advanced into the provinces of Hadramaut and Mahra. He said such unilateral actions "increase the risk of wider escalation and further fragmentation."
Serious consequences
The UN chief warned that "a full resumption of hostilities could have serious consequences for regional peace and security – including in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden and the Horn of Africa."
Guterres called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, reduce tensions, and resolve differences through dialogue, emphasizing that this also applies to regional actors. He stated that "their constructive engagement and coordination in support of UN mediation efforts are key to ensuring collective security."
The Secretary-General also stressed that "Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be preserved," adding that the country "needs a sustainable, negotiated political settlement" that reflects the aspirations of all Yemenis and brings an end to this devastating conflict.
Until then, the UN chief continued, "the Yemeni people will continue to pay a terrible price." He noted that nearly 4.8 million people have been forced to flee their homes, and 19.5 million are in need of humanitarian assistance.
Obstacles to humanitarian aid
Meanwhile, UN aid efforts are facing serious obstacles. "In areas under Houthi control, conditions for operations have become unbearable," the Secretary-General said.
He strongly condemned the continued arbitrary detention of 59 UN and partner agency staff, as well as workers from NGOs, civil society organizations and diplomatic missions, and called for their “immediate and unconditional release in accordance with international law.”
The Secretary-General recalled that the de facto authorities, the Houthis, recently referred the cases of three UN staff members to a special criminal court. He called for this decision to be reversed. Guterres emphasized that the United Nations and its partners should never be subject to harassment, arrest, or detention in connection with the performance of their official duties.
Despite the challenges, the UN remains committed to providing vital assistance to the people of Yemen. "This year, we have assisted more than 5.3 million people with food, nutrition support, water, and medical care," the Secretary-General said. However, he continued, with sufficient funding and increased capacity, much more can be done.
"Peace is possible"
The Secretary-General recalled that the parties to the conflict had already come close to peace—during the ceasefire in 2022 and the commitments agreed upon in 2023—but subsequent events "have seriously complicated the situation." Nevertheless, he emphasized, "peace is possible."
The UN chief assured that "the United Nations remains committed to supporting the Yemeni people on this journey." He called on all parties to engage constructively with the Special Envoy for Yemen, prioritize dialogue over violence, and avoid any unilateral actions that could escalate the situation.
"The people of Yemen demand and deserve peace," the Secretary-General concluded.
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