UN Envoy Highlights Urgent Need to Address Looming Yemen Conflict
UN officials warn of an impending resurgence of conflict in Yemen, highlighting military activity, worsening humanitarian conditions, and the disproportionate impact on women. Recent funding cuts and the designation of Houthis as a terrorist organization complicate peace efforts, necessitating a renewed commitment to inclusive dialogue and support for affected populations.
On Thursday, Hans Grundberg, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, informed the Security Council of a significant concern regarding the potential resurgence of all-out war in Yemen. Following a fragile truce over recent years, he articulated a palpable fear surrounding the current political situation, as Houthi rebels combat Government forces backed by a Saudi-led coalition for more than a decade.
Despite the absence of large-scale ground operations since the UN-mediated truce in April 2022, military activity is still present, and the possibility of hostilities resuming is increasing. Mr. Grundberg observed a rise in aggressive rhetoric among conflict parties, indicating that they are publicly positioning themselves for military confrontation. He stated, “We must not allow this to happen. Words matter. Intent matters. Signals matter.”
He reported several incidents of violence including shelling, drone attacks, and infiltration attempts in areas like Ma’rib, Al Jawf, Shabwa, and Ta’iz. Furthermore, he condemned the Houthis for their arbitrary detention of UN personnel and humanitarian workers, some of whom have remained imprisoned for years. He urged for the immediate release of all detainees, citing distressing circumstances for their families who have suffered during their absence.
Tom Fletcher, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, highlighted the severe funding cuts faced by UN agencies, calling them a “body blow” to the efforts of aid workers. He described how quickly vital humanitarian operations have been shut down, leading to dilemmas over which lives cannot be saved. Furthermore, he emphasized issues concerning gender equality in Yemen, which has dramatically worsened in the wake of the conflict.
As International Women’s Day approaches, Mr. Fletcher pointed out the ongoing deliberate pushback against equality, noting that Yemen ranked second to last in the Global Gender Gap Index. The country exhibits the highest maternal mortality rate in the Middle East, with 1.5 million girls out of school, depriving them of education and exacerbating cycles of discrimination. He warned that without funding, the situation would only deteriorate further.
The designation of Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the US complicates international peace efforts. Mr. Grundberg stressed the necessity of preserving a mediation space for Yemenis to achieve a sustainable and inclusive peace process. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to facilitating discussions among diverse Yemeni groups, highlighting the importance of a conducive environment for achieving lasting solutions. He concluded with a call to action, stating, “We owe it to the millions of Yemenis not to waver or falter in our determination on this.”
The article outlines a grave warning from UN officials regarding the potential resurgence of conflict in Yemen. With military activity continuing and humanitarian challenges worsening, both Hans Grundberg and Tom Fletcher highlight the urgent need for a renewed commitment to peace efforts. The greatest burden is falling on vulnerable demographics, particularly women and children, emphasizing the critical need for immediate humanitarian intervention and financial support. As these issues escalate, the call for sustained international attention and action is paramount.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
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