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12.02.2026 Statement for Briefing on Yemen

Who Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Sandra Jensen Landi
Who Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Sandra Jensen Landi
When 12.02.2026

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Thank you, Mr. President,

 

I thank Special Envoy Grundberg and OCHA Director Doughten for their briefings.

 

And I welcome the representative from Yemen to this meeting.

 

Denmark reiterates our demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all those unlawfully detained by the Houthis. Denmark strongly condemns the continued detention of aid workers, the death sentences issued to a number of the detainees, as well as forced entry into UN premises.

 

These actions by the Houthis are directly restricting the UN’s ability to provide critical humanitarian support in territory under Houthi control. This is an assault not only against the UN, but against ordinary Yemenis in desperate need of life-saving aid.

 

Levels of food insecurity in Yemen are staggering, with more than 18 million Yemenis – about half the population – facing acute food insecurity, while tens of thousands face famine-like conditions.

 

In this vein, we welcome the announcement of the resumption of vital aid flights to Sana’a to provide relief amid overwhelming needs across Houthi-controlled areas.

 

This is a step in the right direction. But it is not enough. We call on the Houthis to release all detained UN, NGO, and diplomatic staff, facilitate immediate humanitarian access, cease all restrictions and prioritise the wellbeing of the people of Yemen.

 

Mr. President,

 

It is clear that divisions in southern Yemen are in no one’s interests and impede efforts towards lasting peace and prosperity.

 

We must focus our efforts on stabilisation and urge all parties to refrain from unilateral actions that could jeopardise a political settlement at this crucial time.

 

Denmark is fully committed to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Yemen. We express our full support to the Presidential Leadership Council.

 

We welcome the formation of the new government as an important step towards stabilising the situation, improving service delivery and pursuing much-needed reforms. The return of women to the cabinet is a positive and essential element.

 

 

Mr. President, to conclude,

 

After eleven years of conflict and insecurity, we must renew efforts towards a credible, inclusive political process to bring a negotiated end to this war.

 

Denmark remains steadfast in our support to these efforts of the Special Envoy and calls upon all Yemeni stakeholders to engage in good faith towards this end.

 

I thank you.