Barran Press
On December 8, 2024, Hans Grundberg, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, warned of the potential for the country to descend once again into conflict. He stressed that the warring parties and the besieged population cannot wait indefinitely for a roadmap to peace.
Speaking to AFP at the Manama Dialogue forum in Bahrain, Grundberg noted that while a resolution to the impoverished nation’s crisis is still possible, opportunities to implement a peace plan have effectively been stalled due to escalating regional crises stemming from the ongoing war in Gaza.
Despite ongoing preparatory discussions with all parties, he stated, "It is clear that this situation cannot persist indefinitely." He emphasized that there is an expectation for tangible progress, and failing to achieve this risks losing the essential momentum for peace.
Grundberg highlighted the presence of hostile voices in the region, urging, "Do not take this path; a resolution to this conflict is possible." He lamented the lack of advancement on commitments made in 2023 under the peace roadmap, indicating that moving forward is currently unfeasible.
He maintained that the foundation for a peace plan exists, as the conflict among Yemenis is solvable. However, he noted that regional instability complicates the situation, particularly due to attacks in the Red Sea.
The envoy underscored that the roadmap is "not a magic wand" for Yemen, which is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises globally, with two-thirds of the population reliant on aid. He stressed the responsibility to maintain momentum and the necessity for all parties to trust in the possibility of achieving peace.
"If this does not happen," he warned, "the consequences are known. A return to violent confrontation would not benefit anyone." He concluded by urging patience among the Yemeni people, who have long awaited peace, stating, "Everyone wants this crisis to end."
On December 23, the UN announced that Yemeni parties had reached agreements to commit to various measures, including a nationwide ceasefire and efforts to improve living conditions, while preparing to resume an inclusive political process under UN auspices. However, peace efforts have been hindered by Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November.