What did the UN special envoy to Yemen urge during his visit to Oman?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a pivotal visit to Oman, the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has implored for the immediate release of all detained UN personnel by the Houthi group. This call comes amidst ongoing tensions and efforts to revitalize peace talks aimed at ending the prolonged civil war in Yemen. The future of the region hinges on diplomatic resolutions.
Key Takeaways
- Immediate release of detained UN staff is crucial for mediation efforts.
- Oman continues to play a significant role in facilitating diplomatic discussions.
- The Houthi group poses ongoing threats, highlighting the fragile security situation.
- International cooperation is essential for achieving lasting peace in Yemen.
- The humanitarian crisis remains a pressing concern amidst political turmoil.
Muscat, Nov 20 (NationPress) During a recent visit to Oman, a UN special envoy has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN personnel detained by Yemen's Houthi group, as stated by his office.
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, engaged in discussions with high-ranking Omani officials in Muscat on Wednesday (local time), centering on the latest developments in Yemen and initiatives to revive a political dialogue aimed at concluding Yemen's decade-long civil conflict.
He expressed gratitude to Oman for its unwavering support for UN mediation efforts, emphasizing the necessity for coordinated regional and international assistance to facilitate a political resolution in Yemen.
During discussions with Mohammed Abdelsalam, the chief negotiator for the Houthis in Muscat, Grundberg urged the release of all remaining UN staff who are arbitrarily detained by the Houthi group, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
In October, the United Nations successfully negotiated the release of 12 foreign nationals under a mediation effort driven by Iran and Oman. The remaining detainees in Houthi custody are Yemenis; while the exact number is unclear, sources estimate several dozen.
The Houthis took control of various northwestern Yemeni provinces in late 2014 when the civil war began, forcing the internationally recognized Yemeni government out of the capital, Sanaa.
In a related development, the Houthi group has threatened to resume missile and drone strikes against Israel if the ceasefire in Gaza collapses, as indicated in a letter to the Palestinian Hamas movement.
This warning, aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV channel on Sunday (local time), arises amidst escalating regional tensions that could jeopardize the fragile US-brokered truce in Gaza, alongside renewed tensions between Iran and the United States concerning stalled nuclear negotiations.
In the letter, Yousif al-Madani, the newly appointed chief of staff for the Houthis, assured Hamas of their steadfast support, stating, "We remain resolute in our commitment to stand with you, regardless of the sacrifices."
Madani was appointed last month to succeed Mohammed Abdulkarim Al-Ghamari, who was killed, along with numerous Houthi officials, in Israeli airstrikes on a building in Sanaa in August.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing struggles in Yemen, where humanitarian crises continue to unfold. The UN's efforts for a peaceful resolution must be supported by all regional players to ensure a stable future for Yemen and its people.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the UN Special Envoy for Yemen?
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen is Hans Grundberg, who is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict.
What did the UN envoy call for during his visit?
He called for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN personnel detained by the Houthi group.
What is the current situation in Yemen?
Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014, resulting in significant humanitarian crises and political instability.
What support did Oman provide in the negotiations?
Oman has shown steadfast support for UN mediation efforts and has facilitated discussions aimed at achieving a political settlement.
What threats have the Houthis made recently?
The Houthis have threatened to resume missile and drone attacks against Israel if the ceasefire in Gaza collapses.
