The emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council regarding the developments in Yemen and the Bab al-Mandab Strait was held on Tuesday afternoon, September 15, 2026. In this session, representatives from various countries discussed the security and political situation in Yemen, particularly concerning maritime shipping and ongoing tensions in the region.
Diverse Approaches in the Security Council
In this meeting, representatives from Russia and China stressed the necessity of restraint and de-escalation and called for the resumption of political negotiations. In contrast, representatives from the United States and its allies reiterated accusations against Yemen's Ansar Allah and accused Iran, emphasizing the need to stop attacks and protect maritime security.
Vassily Nebenzia, the Ambassador and Representative of Russia to the United Nations, referred to the alarming military and political situation in Yemen and stated, "This country is experiencing one of the most severe periods of escalating tensions in recent years." He also mentioned the advances of Houthi forces (Ansar Allah) and added that these advances are facing strong resistance from forces loyal to the official Yemeni authorities.
Concerns About Maritime Shipping
Nebenzia clarified that the ongoing conflicts are gradually spilling over beyond Yemen's national borders and have implications for the entire Middle East. He emphasized the importance of free and safe shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, stating, "Free and safe shipping in this part of the world is essential to ensure the uninterrupted transfer of commercial and humanitarian shipments."
The Russian ambassador also urged the leadership of Ansar Allah to refrain from any threatening actions against commercial vessels and to return to the path of negotiation instead of threats. He called on the members of the Security Council to maintain their composure and avoid hasty actions.
San Li, the Ambassador and Representative of China, also referred to the escalating tensions in Yemen and emphasized respect for the sovereignty of Yemen and Saudi Arabia. He called for a greater role of Gulf countries in mediation and the establishment of a new security architecture for the Middle East.
Jennifer Lustra, the representative of the United States, continued to accuse Iran and called for the halt of Ansar Allah's advances and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions. Kate Foster, Deputy Permanent Representative of the UK to the United Nations, also referred to the ongoing attacks by Ansar Allah against Saudi Arabia, considering these actions a serious threat to international shipping and regional stability.
This meeting reflects the complex challenges regarding maritime and political security in Yemen and the Middle East and highlights the need for cooperation and negotiation to achieve sustainable solutions.
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