Statement of Latvia at the UN Security Council during the Briefing on Middle East (Yemen)
New York, 12 February 2026
Thank you, Mr. President,
I thank Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and OCHA Director of Financing and Outreach Division, Lisa Doughten, for their briefings, and I welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Yemen in today’s meeting.
Having heard the valuable insights from the briefers and taking into account the latest developments in Yemen, I would like to make four points.
Mr President,
First, at a time when Yemen continues to endure one of the world’s gravest humanitarian crises, economic deterioration and persistent political instability, Latvia welcomes the announcement of Yemen’s new government. This represents an important step towards stabilising the country and enhancing public service delivery. The presence of women in the cabinet is an especially positive signal, reflecting a dedication to diversity and inclusion. The new government bears a profound responsibility to drive forward essential reforms and to advance inclusive political dialogue.
In this context, Latvia reaffirms its unwavering support to continued efforts of the UN Special Envoy with a view to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable political settlement in Yemen.
Second, while these developments are encouraging, Latvia strongly deplores the renewed threats by the Houthis against commercial shipping in the Red Sea. This serves as a stark reminder that the underlying threats to maritime security in the region persist and require close and sustained attention of the Council.
Safeguarding freedom of navigation and preventing further escalation depend, in no small part, on curbing the flow of weapons that sustain such threats. The responsibility to implement UN sanctions against the Houthis lies with all Member States. Without full, coordinated, and effective implementation, the arms embargo will not constrain the Houthis’ operational capabilities.
Third, Latvia is alarmed by continued attacks on fundamental rights and freedoms in Yemen. We strongly condemn the recent storming of the Aden al-Ghad newspaper offices. This constitutes a serious violation of the right to freedom of opinion and expression under international human rights law. Latvia calls for a prompt, independent and thorough investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Yesterday’s eruption of violence in Shabwah governorate is yet another example of the extremely volatile security situation in Yemen.
As a final point, Mr. President,
The erosion of security and fundamental rights in Yemen is compounded by the rapid and continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation. Recent findings released by Save the Children reveal an alarming increase in harm to children in Yemen over the past year. Child casualties have surged by 70%, with the number of children killed doubling compared to a year before. Latvia’s message is unequivocal: all parties must immediately halt the ongoing violence and prevent further harm to children by fully upholding international humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, also the safety of those delivering aid remains under serious threat. We condemn detention of United Nations, humanitarian and diplomatic personnel by the Houthis, as well as the searches of UN offices and the seizure of equipment and assets. Latvia calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained staff and an end to these hostile acts, recognising that safeguarding and protecting aid workers is essential to ensure much needed life-saving assistance reaches Yemen’s most vulnerable.
I thank you!