UN Security Council grants final extension to Yemen mission until March

The United Nations Security Council has approved a final, short-term extension for its monitoring mission in Yemen, scheduling its closure for the end of March. The decision paves the way for a transfer of responsibilities as the council seeks to reconfigure its engagement in the long-running conflict.

Vote outcome and the path to closure

On Tuesday, the Council adopted a resolution, drafted by the United Kingdom, to renew the mandate of the UN Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA). The measure received 13 votes in favor, with permanent members Russia and China abstaining. The extension lasts only until March 31, after which the mission's duties are to be transitioned to the office of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen.

Divergent views among permanent members

Following the vote, UK Deputy UN Ambassador Archie Young welcomed the adoption and looked forward to an "orderly and sustainable transition." He also condemned Houthi detentions and called for the release of all detainees. Russia's deputy envoy, Anna Evstigneeva, stated her country abstained rather than blocked the text out of deference to requests from Yemen and regional partners, but insisted the Council's focus should be on facilitating comprehensive normalization and inclusive dialogue.

Concerns over a hasty withdrawal

China's envoy, Fu Cong, expressed caution regarding the mission's withdrawal, highlighting the complex and tense situation in Hudaydah with a "persistent risk of renewed conflict." He argued the Council should "manage the pace properly and avoid a hasty withdrawal that could destabilize the fragile situation or even trigger new conflict." The abstentions reflect apprehension about the planned drawdown of the mission, which has monitored a fragile ceasefire in the critical port city.