The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with our Gulf partners: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Official Statements

• British Government, November 13: “Throughout 2026, countries in the Gulf and the wider region have faced repeated Iranian attacks, targeting civilian areas, critical infrastructure, and vital economic assets. The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with our Gulf partners and will continue to provide practical support to strengthen their defences and security.”

• British Government, November 13: “Resolution 2817 sent a clear message from this Council: these attacks must stop, and navigational rights and freedoms must be respected. Second, the Strait of Hormuz must be reopened. International shipping and seafarers must be able to transit safely and securely, in accordance with international law, as enshrined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.”

• British Government, November 13: “Disruption to vital maritime routes has consequences far beyond this region, including for global trade, energy, and food security. And the most vulnerable are bearing the greatest cost. We condemn Iran’s attacks and attempts to hold the global economy to ransom. And we commend the efforts of mediators, including Qatar, working to avoid further escalation in the region and seeking a negotiated settlement that restores regional stability. The United Kingdom remains committed to diplomacy as the only route to a sustainable solution.”

• British Government, November 13: “Third, the actions of Iran and her proxies, including recent attacks by Iranian-aligned groups in Iraq, risk triggering a spiralling regional conflict. Iran must cease support to such destabilising activity. And fourth, in Yemen. The Houthis’ decision to resume conflict has brought yet more suffering to the Yemeni people and further undermined regional peace and security. An already grave humanitarian crisis has deepened. Renewed fighting has displaced more than 340,000 people.”

• British Government, November 13: “The Houthis’ continued siege of the city of Taiz has driven food prices up by at least 50%, and left hospitals running out of fuel and medicine. We call for rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to ensure that vital supplies can reach those in need throughout Yemen.”

• British Government, November 13: “We are appalled by news of the death of UN employee, Mohammad al-Shami, in Houthi detention. We echo the Secretary-General’s call for an immediate and impartial investigation. We condemn the Houthis’ continued detention of UN, humanitarian, civil society, and diplomatic personnel and reiterate our call for their immediate and unconditional release.”

• British Government, November 13: “And beyond Yemen, we underline our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Government of Yemen in the face of ongoing attacks. And we reaffirm their right to defend their security and sovereignty in accordance with international law. The situation in Yemen needs a diplomatic solution.”

• British Government, November 13: “The Houthis must stop their offensives with immediate effect. We underline the United Kingdom’s support for the UN’s work towards a negotiated, inclusive, Yemeni-led, and Yemeni-owned political settlement. Madam President, the stability of the Gulf is essential for the countries and people of the region and for international peace and security. The United Kingdom will continue working with our partners in its pursuit.”