Security Council Press Statement on Attack against Defence Ministry of Yemen

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Gérard Araud (France):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack on the Yemeni Defence Ministry and hospital that occurred in Sana’a on 5 December, causing numerous deaths and injuries.  They expressed their deep sympathy and sincere condolences to the families of the victims of these heinous acts, and to the people and Government of the Republic of Yemen, and those countries whose nationals have been affected.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Yemeni authorities in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed the need to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and all obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.

The members of the Security Council recalled their previous statements on Yemen, and underlined their support to the Yemeni Government, under the leadership of President Hadi, to combat terrorism, and their condemnation of any acts intended to disrupt the transition process and undermine the Yemeni Government.

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For information media • not an official record