Grundberg Warns UN Security Council: Peace in Yemen Remains Fragile Without Addressing Internal Crises
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
UN Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg warned the UN Security Council today that the peace process in Yemen will remain fragile unless the root causes of internal instability are addressed, stressing that viewing Yemen only through the lens of regional concerns sidelines the voices and needs of Yemenis.
In his briefing to the Council, Grundberg said the ongoing cycle of violence is pushing the country further away from achieving sustainable peace and long-term economic development. He emphasized the need to refocus attention on domestic challenges and highlight Yemen’s significant potential.
Regarding the recent arbitrary arrests of 22 UN staff in Sanaa and Hudaidah, Grundberg described the actions of the Houthi militia as a “blatant escalation,” noting that more than 40 staff members remain in detention, with one employee dying while in custody.
He added that these violations of international law—including the storming of UN offices and seizure of its assets—undermine peace efforts and humanitarian support for the Yemeni people.
Grundberg stressed that the tragedy is not limited to UN employees but also extends to thousands of Yemenis detained due to the conflict. He noted ongoing efforts with the parties to secure the release of all detainees based on the “all-for-all” principle.
The envoy also raised concerns about escalating military activity in Dhale’a, Marib, and Taiz, warning that such moves could spark a full-scale conflict with devastating consequences for Yemen and the wider region.
On the economic front, Grundberg praised government efforts to strengthen the economy, improve the currency, and ease living costs. However, he underscored that unlocking Yemen’s full economic potential requires depoliticized national cooperation, along with continued political and economic reforms.
He stressed that unilateral decisions obstruct solutions, deepen mistrust, and prolong the conflict, urging the adoption of a unifying national vision to achieve peace and stability.
