UN Special Envoy: Houthi Movements and Need for Investigation into the Death of UN Staff Member
The UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, during his briefing to the UN Security Council on Thursday, highlighted military movements and mobilization by the Houthi group on several fronts across the country. He stated that the Houthis have been reinforcing military positions in Abyan, Al-Dhale, Saada, Shabwa, and Taiz, and emphasized that he is working with all conflict parties to find solutions to the ongoing crisis.
Grundberg called for an investigation into the death of a UN staff member who was detained by the Houthis in Saada, expressing concern over the Houthi's ongoing fourth wave of arbitrary detentions of UN personnel.
He also noted the positive developments of the Houthis ceasing their attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Israel, in addition to the release of the crew of the "Galaxy Leader" ship, emphasizing that these developments should be capitalized on to promote de-escalation
The Special Envoy pointed out the deteriorating economic situation in Yemen and reiterated that the cessation of hostilities could pave the way for a political process.
He also referenced the wave of arbitrary arrests carried out by the Houthis last month, particularly targeting UN staff members, which he said poses a direct threat to humanitarian efforts in the country.
Grundberg highlighted the hardships faced by Yemenis in securing basic needs, such as prolonged power outages, and stressed that without peace, prosperity will remain unattainable.
In relation to the road map for peace, Grundberg reiterated the necessity of a comprehensive ceasefire as a fundamental prerequisite for political dialogue facilitated by the UN.
Lastly, he warned that Yemen is at a critical turning point, and a return to military operations would have catastrophic consequences for the country and negatively impact regional stability. Grundberg emphasized that the responsibility for creating space for a negotiated solution lies with both Yemeni parties and regional and international actors.
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