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Yemen: Warring parties must take concrete steps towards an inclusive peace

16 August 2023 - In briefings to the Security Council on Wednesday, two senior UN officials highlighted the need for progress towards peace in war-torn Yemen amid ongoing political, economic and humanitarian challenges.

UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg provided an update on his mediation efforts, both in the country and abroad, while Edem Wosornu of the UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, reported on access impediments and funding gaps affecting aid delivery to millions.

Yemen continues to face a protracted political, humanitarian and developmental crisis after more than eight years of fighting between pro-Government forces, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and Houthi rebels.

An initial two-month truce signed in April 2022 expired that October after two extensions.

Translate willingness into action

Mr. Grundberg has continued engagements with the parties and with Saudi Arabia and Oman.

"The sides continue to display general willingness to seek solutions, but this still needs to translate into concrete steps, in particular, a clear agreement on the way forward that includes restarting an inclusive Yemeni political process," he said.

He added that hostilities have not returned to pre-truce levels despite its expiration, and civilian casualties have significantly declined. However, sporadic fighting and exchanges of gunfire continue on some fronts, particularly in the governorates of Taiz, Marib, Dhale, Hodeida, Shabwa, and Sa'ada.

"Against this backdrop, there have been public threats to return to war. This rhetoric is not conducive to maintaining a fruitful mediation environment." he said, calling for restraint and dialogue.

Economic woes, power cuts

The envoy also addressed the dire economic situation in Yemen, where the warring parties "continue to resort to antagonistic economic measures" which are hurting civilians and fuelling mistrust.

He said the Yemeni Government is still being prevented from exporting petroleum products, its main revenue source, while trade remains curtailed due to restrictions, exorbitant fees and taxes.

Meanwhile, provision of basic services is deteriorating, with citizens facing electricity cuts lasting up to 18 hours in the summer heat. He welcomed a $1.2 billion Saudi pledge which will help to keep the power on and pay some public salaries.

'Fertile grounds' for violent extremism

Mr. Grundberg warned that "political and economic instability are fertile grounds for violent extremist groups."

He expressed concern over reports of the recent increase in activities of violent extremists in Abyan and Shabwa governorates, saying "this is yet another reminder of the consequences of the long-term absence of a political settlement to the conflict."

The UN envoy appealed for the continued unity and support of the Security Council and the international community for his mediation efforts.

"The fragility of the situation and its impact on Yemeni women and men highlight the urgent need to reach a consensus on the way forward," he said.

"My Office is working to convene the parties to address some of their immediate priorities to build confidence and move toward an inclusive and sustainable political settlement."