File of Abductees and Political Negotiations on the Table at Yemeni-UN Talks in “Manama Dialogue”
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
On the sidelines of his participation in the regional security conference “Manama Dialogue,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriate Affairs, Shaea Al-Zindani, discussed the latest developments in the Yemeni file with the UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg. The talks focused significantly on the deteriorating humanitarian situation and the violations against staff of international organizations in Houthi-controlled areas.
During the meeting, Al-Zindani stressed the necessity of urgent UN intervention to secure the release of its staff and humanitarian workers abducted by the Houthi militia in recent months. He warned that the continuation of these practices threatens the future of humanitarian work in the country and undermines efforts to build the trust required for any political settlement.
The Minister affirmed the Yemeni government’s full support for the UN endeavors aimed at restoring stability and revitalizing the stalled political process, praising the humanitarian role played by UN agencies in alleviating the suffering of civilians despite the constraints they face.
For his part, Grundberg briefed the Foreign Minister on the ongoing efforts to reactivate the peace track, including outreach to regional and international parties to create a conducive environment for the resumption of comprehensive dialogue. He reiterated the United Nations’ commitment to working towards ending the suffering of the Yemeni people and supporting sustainable solutions.
These consultations take place within a tense regional context, coming two days after the resumption of meetings in the Omani capital, Muscat, between the head negotiator of the Houthi group, Mohammed Abdul Salam, and the UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, following a hiatus of nearly six months.
Mohammed Abdul Salam had stated in a post on platform X that he discussed with the UN Envoy “the roadmap submitted to the United Nations and agreed upon with the Saudi side under the auspices of the Sultanate of Oman.” He pointed out the necessity of resuming the implementation of its terms, particularly the humanitarian aspect, and avoiding any procrastination in doing so.
