Barran Press
Hans Grundberg, the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen, emphasized the urgent need for measures to de-escalate tensions in the Red Sea to prevent further destabilization. His remarks came at the conclusion of a two-day visit to Cairo, where he met with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelattiy and Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit.
In a statement released by his office, Grundberg expressed growing concern over the regional escalation's impact on peace efforts in Yemen, highlighting that stability in Yemen is critical for broader regional security. He warned that rising tensions in the Red Sea pose a significant threat to maritime stability and vital shipping routes.
Regarding the peace process in Yemen, Grundberg underscored the importance of maintaining progress made through commitments to a nationwide ceasefire and economic improvements. He raised alarms about the arbitrary detentions carried out by the Houthi group, which has targeted numerous UN personnel and diplomatic missions.
The envoy reiterated his urgent call for the immediate and unconditional release of detainees, asserting that such actions undermine trust and further jeopardize the peace process.
In a related development, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry announced the outcomes of Foreign Minister Abdelattiy's meeting with Grundberg, reaffirming Egypt's steadfast support for Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity. Abdelattiy highlighted Egypt's commitment to a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis, based on national dialogue, the Gulf Initiative, and UN Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216.
He also noted the ongoing Egyptian support for Yemen, including medical and food assistance, as well as hosting over a million Yemenis and providing them with services. Abdelattiy stressed the importance of ensuring maritime safety in the Red Sea and the impact of regional tensions on Suez Canal revenues, calling for a comprehensive approach to de-escalation, beginning with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon.
The UN had previously announced in December 2023 that Yemeni parties had reached understandings to implement a nationwide ceasefire and improve living conditions, alongside preparations for a resumed political process under UN auspices. However, peace efforts have stalled due to Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf since November.