UN Security Council demands Houthis step aside in Yemen

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution demanding that Shiite rebels immediately relinquish control of Yemen’s government in a crisis that has pushed the Arab world’s poorest country near collapse. The resolution, co-sponsored by 10 countries including the United States, demands that the Houthi rebels “immediately and unconditionally” withdraw forces from government institutions and engage “in good faith” in UN-led peace talks.

The people of Yemen deserve a clear path back to the political transition process and a legitimate government.

Samantha Power, U.S. Ambassador to the UN

The Houthis’ takeover that began with seizing the capital, Sanaa, in September has raised alarms that the world’s most dangerous branch of al-Qaida, based in Yemen, would use the chaos to its advantage. The Houthis and the militant Sunnis of the al-Qaida branch are bitter rivals. Arab countries have been pressing for the use of military force against what they call the rebel group’s “illegitimate seizure of power.” However, the resolution, which was approved by all 15 council members at an emergency meeting does not act under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter, which would allow it to be militarily enforced.

It was clear the world was waiting for a powerful message from the U.N. Security Council. The Houthis must take responsibility for their actions and stop using violence and coercion as political tools.

Mark Lyall Grant, British Ambassador to the UN