12.08.2025 Denmark's statement for open briefing on Yemen
Checked Against Delivery
Thank you, Minister,
We also welcome your presence at this meeting today.
At the outset, I thank Special Envoy Grundberg and Director Rajasingham for their briefings. I also welcome the representative of Yemen at this meeting.
The latest period in the region has continued down a volatile path. Yemen – regrettably – has not been spared. The Houthis’ continued escalation threatens to drag it even further into the abyss.
Mr. President, let me address three points today.
First, Denmark strongly condemns the Houthis’ continued attacks in the Red Sea, as well as their threats of further escalation. These attacks endanger not only regional and international security, but also international trade, freedom of navigation, innocent seafarers and the marine environment.
Recent videos of forced confessions by the crew members of the Eternity C, who remain detained by the Houthis, are completely unacceptable. All detained crew members must be immediately and unconditionally released and allowed to return home.
At the same time, the Houthis continue their missile and drone attacks against Israel. We condemn these attacks and reiterate our call on all member states – in particular Iran - to respect the arms embargo on the Houthis.
Furthermore, we recall all parties’ obligation to respect international humanitarian law; to protect civilian infrastructure, civilians and UN personnel.
Second, Mr. President, on the political situation,
Despite Special Envoy Grunberg’s extensive efforts towards a resumption of the political process, progress regrettably remains limited.
We regret that the Houthis have been escalating the economic conflict by printing new bank notes, in violation of the economic understanding of the 23rd of July of last year.
Neither party, nor the civilian Yemeni population will benefit from a new economic conflict that risks jeopardizing the stability of an already fragile economy.
We call on the parties to demonstrate a sincere commitment to peace, to release the remaining conflict-related detainees and to refrain from further escalatory moves.
Mr. President, my third point,
The humanitarian situation in Yemen continues to grow more dire. As we have heard today, food insecurity is rampant. For many Yemenis, daily life is becoming unbearable. Even as temperatures soar, some must endure up to 20 hours a day without electricity. Living conditions are deteriorating and protests in government-controlled areas are mounting as a result.
Political and financial reform are prerequisites for improving the situation. The government of Yemen must speed up efforts to implement these reforms to ensure effective governance, and to reinforce the unity of the Presidential Leadership Council.
More must be done to meet the rising humanitarian needs, in particular for the most vulnerable. Denmark will continue to play our part, having donated more than 215 million USD in humanitarian response since the beginning of the conflict.
Finally, we reiterate our call on the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release all detained humanitarian workers.
In conclusion, Mr. President,
The path forward is clear: an immediate cessation of hostilities, a genuine commitment to political dialogue, and a concerted effort to address the humanitarian catastrophe.
Denmark remains steadfast in its support for the Yemeni people and will continue to work with this Council to seek a peaceful resolution.
I thank you.