Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, stated that the situation in Yemen is closely linked to the broader regional context, including the crisis in Gaza.
He expressed concern over Houthi attacks on Ben Gurion Airport and Israeli strikes on Al-Hudaidah Port and Sana’a Airport, stressing that these developments place Yemen once again at the center of regional escalation.
Grundberg noted that Oman’s announcement on May 6 regarding the cessation of hostilities between the US and the Houthis was a step toward easing tensions—not only in the Red Sea, but also within Yemen.
In an interview with Al-Dustour newspaper, Grundberg emphasized that a sustainable solution in Yemen can only be achieved through a negotiated political settlement. He said he is working with Yemeni parties, as well as regional and international stakeholders, to create the necessary conditions for a serious and meaningful dialogue.
He highlighted that the 2022 truce and the commitments made by the parties in 2023 demonstrated that dialogue can be constructive and lead to tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Grundberg acknowledged the deep-rooted mistrust between parties, the rise in hostile rhetoric, and escalating regional tensions. However, he asserted that these challenges can be overcome with strengthened efforts and renewed focus on a Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned peace process.
He underlined clear priorities agreed upon by Yemenis: a permanent ceasefire supported by robust security arrangements, economic relief, and the resumption of an inclusive political process.
Grundberg also voiced concern over the U.S. designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization, reiterating that a political solution remains the only viable path to ending the conflict.
He strongly condemned the arbitrary and prolonged detention of UN and humanitarian workers by the Houthis, calling for their immediate release.
The envoy stressed the importance of including Yemeni women in the peace process, declaring that any peace effort that excludes women is incomplete.
He concluded that ending the war in Yemen requires a nationwide ceasefire, followed by economic recovery and an inclusive political process.
The UN-sponsored roadmap, he explained, includes a comprehensive ceasefire, addressing economic and humanitarian challenges, and initiating preparations for an inclusive political dialogue.
