Yemen has fallen back into full-scale war, UN envoy tells the Security Council

9 October 2026

The Security Council met on 9 October 2026 to discuss the crisis in Yemen, where UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg warned that the country has fallen back into full-scale war. A Houthi offensive launched in September has sharply escalated the 12-year-long war for control of the country, and spillover from the US-Iran war has provoked a new displacement crisis. Fighting between Iran-backed Houthis and Saudi-backed Government forces is intensifying around Taiz, and more than 200,000 people have been displaced. Government forces say they have recaptured the port city of Mocha, while cross-border missile and drone strikes on Saudi airports and energy infrastructure have continued this week. Aid agencies warn of surging cholera cases, rising child casualties and deepening hunger. Diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider regional conflict, including threats to Red Sea shipping, were also expected to feature at the meeting.