UN Envoy Raises Alarm Over Potential Resurgence of Yemen Conflict

UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg warns of a potential resurgence of conflict in Yemen, highlighting the alarming ongoing military activities. Humanitarian constraints and cuts in funding are severely impacting aid efforts, particularly for women and children. The UN emphasizes the need for inclusive mediation to foster peace.

On Thursday, Hans Grundberg, the United Nations (UN) Special Envoy for Yemen, cautioned the Security Council about the increasing possibility of a full-scale conflict resurgence in Yemen following years of tenuous peace. He described the current situation in Yemen as alarming, especially given the ongoing hostilities between Houthi rebels and Government forces supported by a Saudi-led coalition.

Despite the absence of large-scale ground combat since the April 2022 UN-mediated truce, military engagements persist, raising concerns about the fragile ceasefire. Grundberg indicated that the parties involved in the conflict are escalating their rhetoric in preparation for potential military action. He stressed the importance of mindful communication, stating that mixed messages and aggressive discourse could lead to serious consequences.

Mr. Grundberg reported recent military incidents involving shelling and drone attacks in multiple regions including Ma’rib and Al Jawf, along with alarming reports of the Houthi rebels detaining UN personnel. He called for the immediate release of detainees, emphasizing the tragic circumstances many families endure while separated from their loved ones.

Tom Fletcher, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, highlighted the detrimental effects of recent funding reductions on humanitarian efforts in Yemen. He remarked that these funding cuts have significantly hindered the ability of aid workers and organizations to deliver essential services, stating, “It is the pace at which so much vital work has been shut down that adds to the perfect storm that we face.”

Fletcher further pointed out the severe impact of the ongoing crisis on women and girls in Yemen, particularly as International Women’s Day approaches. He noted the country’s alarming rank in gender equality issues, asserting that progress remains stagnant. The maternal mortality rate in Yemen is exceptionally high, while educational opportunities for millions of girls are sorely lacking.

As funding continues to diminish, Mr. Fletcher warned that the humanitarian situation would worsen, despite women’s resilience and vital roles amid adversity. He committed to supporting women with whatever resources are available while imploring UN representatives to consider their impactful decisions.

The designation of Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the US has complicated peace initiatives yet underscored the need for mediation that includes diverse Yemeni voices. Mr. Grundberg reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to fostering a peaceful resolution, emphasizing that a conducive environment is essential for achieving a stable and inclusive political process.

In summary, the situation in Yemen remains precarious as fears of renewed conflict grow amidst a fragile truce. The deteriorating humanitarian conditions particularly affect women and children, as funding shortfalls threaten aid efforts and exacerbate the crisis. Both Mr. Grundberg and Mr. Fletcher have called for immediate action and international cooperation to address these challenges and work toward a lasting peace in Yemen.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com