UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg warned of a possible return to all-out war in Yemen, noting rising military tensions despite a fragile truce since April 2022. Significant humanitarian constraints due to funding cuts jeopardize aid efforts, particularly impacting women and girls. As negotiations face new challenges from the US terror designation of Houthis, the need for inclusive dialogue remains critical to achieve lasting peace.
The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, addressed the United Nations Security Council regarding the concerning situation in Yemen, highlighting fears of a potential resurgence of full-scale conflict. He noted that while large-scale military operations have not recommenced since the UN-mediated truce in April 2022, tensions are rising, with increased military rhetoric from conflicting parties and reinvigorated military activities in regions such as Ma’rib and Al Jawf.
Mr. Grundberg commented, “We must not allow this to happen. Words matter. Intent matters. Signals matter.” He reported alarming developments including shelling and drone attacks, as well as the Houthis’ arbitrary detention of numerous UN personnel, some of whom have been held without resolution for years. He urged for the unconditional release of all detainees, stating, “Some colleagues’ parents have passed away while they have been in detention, without knowing the fate of their children.”
Tom Fletcher, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, informed the council about significant funding cuts impacting humanitarian efforts, calling them a “body blow” to the ongoing work. He underscored the dire implications of these cuts, leading to situations where aid workers must choose which lives to save.
As International Women’s Day approaches, Mr. Fletcher emphasized the serious setbacks for gender equality in Yemen, where women and girls significantly suffer. Yemen ranked nearly last on the Global Gender Gap Index in 2021, and the maternal mortality rate remains the highest in the Middle East. He warned that the lack of funding will further exacerbate these issues, stating, “the numbers in my next briefings will be worse.”
Concerning the US designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, Mr. Grundberg asserted the importance of preserving dialogue among Yemenis to achieve an inclusive peace. He reiterated his commitment to engaging all stakeholders, insisting that the political process must include a diverse group of Yemenis. Emphasizing the need for a conducive environment for peace talks, he concluded with a commitment to the millions of Yemenis waiting for stability, stating, “We owe it to the millions of Yemenis not to waver or falter in our determination on this.”
In summary, the warnings issued by UN officials regarding Yemen’s precarious peace highlight the urgency of international intervention and support. With rising military tensions and worsening humanitarian conditions, it is imperative to prioritize peacebuilding efforts and protect vulnerable populations, especially women and children, who are disproportionately affected by the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
