Grundberg at the UN Security Council: Salaries, De-escalation, and Freedom of Movement Are Keys to Saving Yemen from Collapse
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
UN Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg stated that while the negotiation process between Yemeni parties remains difficult, it still offers a window of hope toward resolving the years-long conflict.
In his briefing to the UN Security Council on Wednesday, Grundberg warned against unilateral actions that could plunge the country into new regional crises, urging all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that would worsen the humanitarian situation.
He stressed that Yemen can no longer endure further division or escalation, pointing to alarming military movements in the provinces of Al-Dhalea, Al-Jawf, Marib, Taiz, and Saada.
“There is a real risk of the country sliding into a new cycle of violence unless serious efforts are made to revive the political process,” Grundberg said.
He added, “Yemen’s future cannot be built on unilateral moves, but through collective will that gives Yemenis the hope and dignity they deserve,” calling for peaceful solutions and long-term stability.
Grundberg highlighted meetings with the Yemeni Prime Minister in Aden, emphasizing the urgent need for economic measures—such as regular salary payments, economic stimulation, and resuming oil and gas exports—as essential steps to improve living conditions.
On the issue of detainees, he noted that the prisoner exchange process has been stalled for over a year. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained due to the conflict, adding:
“There is no justification for prolonging the suffering of families awaiting the return of their loved ones.”
Grundberg welcomed the reopening of the road in Al-Dhalea, describing it as a positive sign of potential on-the-ground progress and a model of what can be achieved through consensus. He emphasized the need to build on this to improve freedom of movement and boost economic activity.
He proposed a three-priority roadmap:
- Military de-escalation and setting standards for a comprehensive ceasefire
- Preparation for serious political talks
- Coordinated efforts with regional countries and the international community to ensure maritime security and freedom of navigation—particularly in the Red Sea
Grundberg expressed being moved by the voices of Yemeni women and activists he met during his travels, saying their courage reinforces the need to protect and expand civic space as a vital part of Yemen’s future.
In conclusion, he renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of UN personnel and humanitarian and diplomatic workers detained by the Houthis, stressing their deteriorating health conditions and urgent need for treatment and reunification with their families.“This issue will not be forgotten,” he stated.
