The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with our Gulf partners: UK statement at the UN Security Council
The UK reaffirms support for Gulf partners amid Iranian attacks and regional instability, urging de-escalation and adherence to international law at the UN Security Council.
The United Kingdom, speaking through Ambassador Sarah MacIntosh at the UN Security Council, condemned repeated Iranian attacks in 2026 that targeted civilian areas, critical infrastructure, and economic assets across the Gulf and wider region. The UK pledged continued practical support to strengthen Gulf partners’ defences and security in response to these threats. Resolution 2817 was highlighted as a clear Council message demanding an end to the attacks and respect for navigational rights and freedoms under international law.
The UK underscored the urgent need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that safe and secure transit for international shipping and seafarers is essential for global trade, energy, and food security. Disruptions to vital maritime routes were noted to disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, while Iran’s actions were condemned as attempts to hold the global economy to ransom. Mediators, including Qatar, were commended for efforts to prevent further escalation and seek a negotiated settlement restoring regional stability.
The UK warned that Iran’s support for destabilising activities, including recent attacks by Iranian-aligned groups in Iraq, risks escalating into a broader regional conflict. The resumption of conflict by the Houthis in Yemen was cited as deepening an already severe humanitarian crisis, with over 340,000 people displaced and food prices rising by at least 50% in Taiz due to the siege of the city.
The UK expressed strong condemnation of the Houthis’ continued detention of UN, humanitarian, civil society, and diplomatic personnel, including the death of UN employee Mohammad al-Shami in Houthi custody. The UK called for immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access in Yemen and reiterated solidarity with Saudi Arabia and the internationally recognised Government of Yemen, affirming their right to defend security and sovereignty in accordance with international law.