Yemen: Ceasefire still possible - Special Envoy Briefing | United Nations

Briefing by Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, on the situation in the Middle East, during the 9806th meeting of the Security Council. ---------------------------- UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg said urged the parties to actively engage with his efforts on the roadmap which would deliver a ceasefire and economic measures, reiterating that “this is still possible.” Grundberg briefed the Council on the recent development in the country, via video link. He highlighted that this month marks six months since Ansar Allah initiated a campaign of arbitrary detentions targeting personnel from international and national organisations, diplomatic missions, civil society, and private-sector entities. While three detainees have been released, dozens of others—including a member of his team—remain arbitrarily detained. And some are still denied even the basic humane act of a phone call with their families. The Special Envoy said, “These arbitrary detentions constitute a flagrant violation of basic human rights, causing profound anguish for their families left to grapple with uncertainty and fear for their loved ones' safety.” He continued his call for their immediate and unconditional release, “and I greatly appreciate this Council’s unequivocal support for this message,” Grundberg added. The Special Envoy also noted that Yemen’s economic crisis is deepening, adding that each month, he has warned this Council of the catastrophic consequences of the contraction, fragmentation and weaponisation of the economy. The failure to pay public sector salaries and pensions has driven widespread poverty, while soaring inflation has left many families unable to afford basic necessities, including food, he informed the Council. Grundberg said, “Through engagement with stakeholders, including the banking sector, we are exploring practical and tangible solutions to restore stability and foster dialogue on Yemen’s economy, including payment of salaries and restarting oil and gas exports in the interests of the population.”


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