Details in a press release show that The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, including the targeting of civilian and energy infrastructure. The FCDO spokesperson said: “The United Kingdom strongly condemns the Houthis’ decision to resume conflict in Yemen and their recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, including the targeting of civilian and energy infrastructure. We offer our condolences to those injured and affected and stand with Saudi Arabia, the internationally recognised Government of Yemen, and our regional partners. The Houthis bear full responsibility for this crisis. Their decision to restart conflict in Yemen puts the most vulnerable Yemeni citizens at further risk and has directly deepened humanitarian suffering amongst those most in need in Yemen. Houthi attacks endanger wider regional stability, and freedom of navigation and vital trade routes through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb. We are clear that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Yemen have the right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law. The UK is working with partners to support regional stability, protect civilians and maintain and support humanitarian access in Yemen. We call on the Houthis to cease their attacks and escalation immediately.”
Context
The statement reflects a continued, if somewhat blunt, stance from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) regarding the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The core message—that the Houthis bear full responsibility for the crisis and their attacks constitute a destabilising force—remains consistent with statements made since March, specifically in the speech delivered at the UN Security Council on 10 September, which echoed the condemnation of Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia, including targeting of civilian and energy infrastructure. This reiteration underscores the UK’s unwavering support for Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Government of Yemen, a position firmly established in earlier declarations regarding the need to protect regional stability and ensure freedom of navigation within critical waterways. The statement does not address the underlying causes of the conflict, nor does it mention any specific proposals for a negotiated settlement.
