Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the meeting on the situation in the Middle East, Yemen

Thank you Mr. President.

I thank Special Envoy Grundberg and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their briefings. You can rest assured of Slovenia’s full support for your efforts. I also welcome Yemeni Permanent Representative to the meeting.

Mr. President,

It is with deep regret that we are convening today against the backdrop of the devastating news of the death of the World Food Programme staff member in Houthi detention earlier this week. We offer our condolences to his family and call for a swift, transparent and thorough investigation into his death. This follows the detention of an additional eight UN personnel at the end of January, bringing the total number of UN staff now detained by the Houthis to 23.

Slovenia believes that this warrants this Council’s outright condemnation. We call once again for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN staff, as well as all others detained by the Houthis. Resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel is clear on the parties’ obligation and responsibilities. Humanitarians must never be a target.

Mr. President,

These actions are particularly reprehensible when humanitarian needs are so high. It is not only an attack on humanitarians and on the UN family, but also an attack on all those Yemenis who need humanitarian assistance the most.  

The recently published 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for Yemen shows that needs are growing. Food insecurity, malnutrition and lack of clean water remain a serious concern across many parts of the country. The spectre of famine is never far from the Yemeni people.

Since joining the Council we have underlined the need for all stakeholders to prioritise the protection and needs of civilians in Yemen first and foremost. We continue to make this plea. We believe that any worsening of this humanitarian crisis will only take us further away from peace, our shared goal.

Mr. President,

We hoped that the ceasefire agreement in Gaza as well as between Israel and Lebanon would offer a precious opportunity to bring much needed peace and stability to the entire region, including in Yemen. We must strive towards a sustainable nationwide ceasefire in Yemen, and making progress of an inclusive intra-Yemeni political process, that prioritises the population’s needs and lays the groundwork for reconciliation and recovery, building on the truce first secured by the Special Envoy in 2022. A political process in which women will fully, meaningfully and safely participate.

The recent release of the Galaxy Leader crew was welcome and we recognise the important role played by the Sultanate of Oman in achieving this outcome.

In conclusion, we urge all parties, particularly the Houthis, to refrain from any escalatory or inflammatory acts and rhetoric during this critical period. All attacks must end and all detentions must be reversed! Last month I called on all sides to seize the moment and show a genuine commitment to peace and good governance. I reiterate this call, which today feels all the more urgent.

I thank you.

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