Saudi Arabia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Abdullah bin Yahya Al-Muallami, called on the UN Security Council to warn Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen that their inhibiting of the work of relief organizations in the war-torn country will bring about “grave consequences.”

The US had warned it would cut off aid completely in light of Houthi actions.

As for the recent briefing by the UN Envoy to Yemen, Martin Griffiths, Muallami said that it was met with great understanding with regard to what Houthis are doing to halt UN aid. Griffiths had voiced his concern about an increase in countrywide violence as Houthis persist with their aggression.

Muallami said that Saudi Arabia has long demanded that the UN take a stance on the matter and warn Houthis that their actions will have grave consequences.

Referring to "hesitation in the past because international mediators did not wish to lose contact with Houthis," he stressed that now there is a greater understanding of the situation not only among mediators but also within the UNSC.

He stressed that Saudi Arabia “is closely following this matter, and is working with friendly and brotherly countries in the council to emphasize the need to pressure the Houthis to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to those who deserve it.”