UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg addressed the Security Council, emphasizing that the crisis in Yemen is deeply intertwined with broader regional instability. He described Yemen as both a reflection and an amplifier of regional volatility, noting that progress toward peace is hindered by regional rivalries, cross-border tensions, and internal divisions. Grundberg highlighted that the ongoing conflict risks escalating into full-scale warfare if hostilities continue unchecked.
He reported a dangerous intensification of attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, particularly in Al Dhale’, Ma’rib, and Ta’iz. The decade-long conflict between Houthi forces, also known as Ansar Allah, and Yemeni Government forces backed by a Saudi-led coalition continues to destabilize the country. Grundberg also drew attention to the impact of regional conflicts, including hostilities involving Ansar Allah and Israel, which further exacerbate Yemen’s insecurity and divert attention from peace efforts.
The humanitarian situation in Yemen remains dire. UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher stated that Yemen is the third most food-insecure country globally, with 17 million people already struggling to meet basic food needs and an additional one million expected to face extreme hunger by early 2026. He noted that seventy per cent of households do not have enough food for daily sustenance, while one in five households goes a full day without food. Two million women and girls have lost access to reproductive health services due to funding shortfalls.
Despite these challenges, humanitarian organizations continue to provide assistance, delivering food, water, health, and nutrition services to tens of thousands across Hajjah, Amran, and Ma’rib. Relief efforts also reached over 172,000 people affected by flooding with essential supplies such as shelter, hygiene kits, and clean water. However, ongoing hostilities, infrastructure damage, and the detention of aid workers severely hinder operations. Twenty-two UN personnel were recently arbitrarily detained by Ansar Allah, with over 40 still in detention, including a staff member who died in custody.
Both Grundberg and Fletcher underscored the urgent need for dialogue, adherence to international law, and the creation of a secure environment for humanitarian work. Grundberg called on Yemeni leaders to pursue a nationwide ceasefire, economic reforms, and inclusive political engagement. Fletcher stressed the immediate release of detained aid workers and highlighted that obstructing humanitarian efforts only worsens the suffering of Yemenis. The UN officials emphasized that the people of Yemen deserve reliable access to humanitarian aid and a future marked by security, justice, and opportunity.
