The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, acknowledged the significant challenges in advancing a resolution to the Yemeni crisis and implementing the UN roadmap signed by the parties in late 2023. He stressed that there's "no quick fix" for the complex situation.
In an interview with Egypt's Al-Dustour newspaper, Grundberg stated that achieving an inclusive political process allowing Yemenis from all backgrounds, regions, and identities a genuine chance to shape their future "might seem a distant goal, but in reality, it is entirely possible and realistic."

"The Yemenis I speak with are not asking for miracles; they are asking for a peace they can trust, and a future through which they can rebuild their lives with dignity," Grundberg explained. "To get there, we must be frank: there is no quick fix."

When asked why concrete progress remains elusive despite various peace efforts, Grundberg cited a "deep-rooted lack of trust between the parties, escalating hostile rhetoric, and recurring cycles of attacks and responses," compounded by increasing regional tensions and an economy on the brink of collapse.
Regarding the UN-backed roadmap, Grundberg affirmed that the environment has shifted since the parties agreed to it in late 2023. The regional situation, particularly in the Red Sea, has become more volatile, making progress difficult. However, he underscored the urgent need to return to a political path that includes a sustainable ceasefire, a functioning economy, and a political process that brings Yemenis together to decide their own future.

The UN envoy downplayed the impact of the U.S. designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization, describing it as a "unilateral measure." He stated, "The American designation is ultimately a sovereign decision, but what I can say clearly is that the conflict in Yemen cannot be resolved through unilateral measures, regardless of which party takes them."

"What we need is a political solution that results from serious negotiations conducted in good faith, supported by a coordinated international effort," he added. "While member states can take unilateral actions, we still need the concerted efforts of all relevant actors to support the UN-led peace process."
On the "optimal solution to end the war in Yemen," Grundberg reiterated the necessity of an inclusive political process that empowers Yemenis to shape their own future, emphasizing that "this is how sustainable peace is built." He concluded by stressing that none of this can succeed without strong support from regional and international parties, with the unity of the Security Council remaining essential.