Barran Press
On January 9, 2025, Hans Grundberg, the United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen, concluded a three-day visit to the capital, Sana'a, which is under the control of the Houthi movement, designated internationally as a terrorist organization.
According to a brief statement released by the envoy's office on X, Grundberg's trip focused on discussions with Houthi leaders regarding the need for de-escalation, both nationally and regionally, to foster an environment conducive to dialogue.
The envoy emphasized the importance of reaching concrete agreements to pave the way for a political process aimed at achieving lasting peace and stability throughout Yemen. He stated, "I am committed to safeguarding the progress made on the roadmap and focusing on the prospects for peace in Yemen."
Grundberg also urged the Houthis to immediately and unconditionally release individuals detained from the UN, NGOs, civil society, and diplomatic missions.
Prior to arriving in Sana'a on January 6, Grundberg had met with Omani officials, including the Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Khalifa bin Ali Al-Harthi, and the head of the Houthi negotiating delegation, Mohammed Abdulsalam, during a visit to Oman.
During these meetings, he stressed the necessity of concrete actions to facilitate a political process in Yemen and called for the immediate and unconditional release of detainees as a crucial step to demonstrate commitment to peace efforts.
On December 23, 2024, the UN announced that Yemeni parties had reached agreements to adhere to a series of measures, including a nationwide ceasefire and actions to improve living conditions, while preparing to resume an inclusive political process under UN auspices.
However, the peace roadmap has stalled due to Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since November 2024.