[15/09/2026 05:34]

ADEN-SABA

Foreign Minister and Expatriates Dr. Afrah al-Zouba discussed today with Acting UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen Laurent Bukera the latest developments and the repercussions of the recent escalation by the Iran-backed Houthi militia, as well as ways to strengthen cooperation between the Yemeni government and the United Nations to address humanitarian and development needs.

The meeting, attended by Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Mohammed Abdullah Ahmed al-Faqmi and Minister of State Waleed al-Abara, reviewed political and field developments and their humanitarian impact, as well as government efforts to protect civilians, facilitate the work of UN agencies and humanitarian organizations, and ensure aid reaches those in need.

Dr. al-Zouba stressed the importance of strengthening UN agencies' presence and operations from Aden and the liberated governorates, and improving coordination with relevant government authorities to ensure a faster and more effective response to emergency needs.

She also stressed the need to link relief efforts with support for national institutions and expand sustainable development programs to improve services and ease the suffering of citizens.

The minister said Houthi violations against UN personnel, offices and property require a clear UN position and effective measures to protect its staff and safeguard the independence and integrity of humanitarian operations. She stressed that such practices should not be accepted as a fait accompli or met with measures that could reward them or undermine humanitarian organizations' ability to perform their duties.

Bukera, for his part, outlined UN efforts to address the current developments and respond to growing needs, affirming the UN's commitment to continued coordination with the Yemeni government, international funds and donors to support the emergency response and sustain development programs.

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