Yemen: End of nationwide armistice foreshadows ‘high risk of war’, Security Council hearings |

He told the ambassadors that since the ceasefire began, six and a half months ago, it had begun to alleviate the suffering of Yemenis, after more than seven years of civil war, and offered “an opportunity truly historic” to work towards a permanent solution.

But the period of relative peace between internationally recognized government forces and the Houthi rebels ended 11 days ago, and now both must choose to “preserve and build on the truce.” , or return to war.

Win success

“The fruits and benefits of the truce should not be underestimated,” he said, adding that it had brought “the longest period of peace so far.”

During the pause in fighting, there were no major military operations and casualties were reduced by 60 percent, Grundberg said.

Sana’a Airport has finally opened to international passengers, allowing nearly 27,000 Yemenis to receive medical treatment abroad and pursue educational or business opportunities abroad.

More than 1.4 million tons of fuel have been delivered to the important ports of Hudaydah on the Red Sea; and there have been face-to-face UN-brokered meetings on military de-escalation.

“It is important to remember that the truce is never meant to be over, but rather building blocks to enhance trust between the parties and establish a favorable working environment towards a political solution on conflict,” the UN special envoy reminded.

There can still be a new truce

UN official briefs ambassadors on his ongoing efforts to engage regional and international parties and partners on innovative options, highlighting discussions in Abu Dhabi and Muscat.

“Personally, I believe that it is still possible for the parties to come to an agreement” said Mr. Grundberg.

“With such high stakes, it’s important that we don’t let this opportunity slip away. The parties need to demonstrate the leadership, compromise and flexibility needed to urgently reach an agreement on the extension and extension of the ceasefire.”

The Special Envoy thanked the Council for its continued unwavering support and maintained that its unified stance on renewing and extending the ceasefire “made it clear that The international community expects the parties to reach an agreement with urgency“.

Hans Grundberg (left), Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Yemen and Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, briefed the Council on the situation United Nations Security.

Reducing the threat from landmines

In a video briefing from Hudaydah, the government hardest hit by mine and explosive hazards, the UN’s Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, Joyce Msuya, described “these terrible danger” faced by civilians.

“Landmines and other explosive hazards continue to be a major cause of civilian casualties,” she said, noting that last month 70 people were killed or injured by landmines and improvised explosive devices. and unexploded ordnance.

But the effects go beyond killing and killing, “they convert simple everyday activities, like farming, fishing or walking to school, into life-or-death situations,” he said. She added.

“We need urgent action to reduce this threat, including increasing support for demining projects and facilitating the import of equipment,” she said.

‘A road ahead’

At the same time, she told the Council that the country’s deteriorating economy and collapse of basic services were posing other dangers.

Over the past six days, Msuya said she has witnessed first-hand markets without food and basic goods, hospitals and schools lacking basic equipment, with “doctors and teachers not be paid in full – if any”.

“Humanitarians are doing their best to address the most pressing needs, but we cannot do this alone and we cannot replace the roles of others,” she said, asking for help. support from donors, development organizations and international financial institutions “to turn the tide and chart a path forward”.