UN Envoy Warns of Escalating Conflict Risks in Yemen Amid Humanitarian Crisis
The UN envoy for Yemen warns of an imminent return to conflict as military tensions rise following years of fragile peace. Authorities are increasingly concerned about humanitarian crises facing vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls, amid severe funding cuts. Efforts for an inclusive peace dialogue remain crucial to addressing the ongoing challenges in the region.
The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, expressed significant concern over the risk of returning to full-scale conflict in Yemen, especially after years of a fragile truce. He reported to the Security Council that military activities are resuming, and the current trajectory in Yemen is deeply troubling. Houthi rebels continue to clash with government forces backed by a Saudi-led coalition, raising fears of intensified hostilities.
Mr. Grundberg highlighted the rising rhetoric from conflicting parties as they appear to prepare for military engagement, stating, “We have seen a rise in rhetoric from the parties to the conflict, pre-positioning themselves publicly for military confrontation.” He emphasized the importance of careful communication, noting that mixed messages could lead to severe consequences. Furthermore, he reported incidents of drone attacks and shelling that have compounded the tensions across regions including Ma’rib and Al Jawf.
Additionally, the arbitrary detention of UN personnel and humanitarian workers by the Houthis has drawn condemnation, with Mr. Grundberg calling for their immediate release. He expressed sadness over families left in uncertainty, stating, “Some colleagues’ parents have passed away while they have been in detention, without knowing the fate of their children.”
UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher addressed the funding cuts faced by UN agencies, describing them as catastrophic for humanitarian efforts. He pointed out that this situation forces aid workers into dilemmas, as they must choose whose lives to save amidst dwindling resources. Mr. Fletcher remarked, “It is the pace at which so much vital work has been shut down that adds to the perfect storm that we face.”
On the eve of International Women’s Day, Mr. Fletcher also highlighted the grave impact of the conflict on women and girls, pointing to Yemen’s low rank on the Global Gender Gap Index. The country suffers from the highest maternal mortality rate in the Middle East and a significant number of girls lacking access to education. He predicted worsening conditions due to funding shortfalls, while affirming the essential role women play in survival amid adversity.
The new US designation of the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization complicates peace efforts. Mr. Grundberg underscored the necessity to maintain a mediation platform that includes diverse Yemeni voices for achieving lasting peace. He affirmed his office’s commitment to fostering dialogue, emphasizing that supportive conditions must be established to facilitate political processes, stating, “We owe it to the millions of Yemenis not to waver or falter in our determination on this.”
In summary, the situation in Yemen remains precarious, with heightened fears of returning to full-scale conflict amidst rising military activities and deteriorating humanitarian conditions. The UN officials’ accounts underscore the urgent need for sustained international attention and support for a comprehensive peaceful resolution. It is crucial to address the humanitarian crisis, particularly the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, especially women and children, in order to prevent further decline in living conditions. The collaboration and commitment towards inclusive dialogue are imperative for restoring stability in Yemen.
Original Source: news.un.org
Post Comment