What Steps is the UN Envoy Taking Amid Rising Tensions in Yemen?
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Synopsis
As tensions escalate in Yemen's eastern regions, UN Envoy Hans Grundberg calls for calm and dialogue among conflicting parties. His emphasis on restraint comes after recent military actions, reflecting the complex political landscape in the region. Will these efforts succeed in fostering peace?
Key Takeaways
- UN Envoy Hans Grundberg calls for calm and dialogue in Yemen.
- Recent airstrikes by Saudi Arabia target the STC amid tensions.
- The STC has expanded its military presence in eastern Yemen.
- Saudi Arabia warns against actions undermining de-escalation efforts.
- Calls for southern independence continue despite government opposition.
Aden, Dec 28 (NationPress) - The United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has called upon all involved parties to maintain calm and refrain from escalating tensions, particularly in Yemen's eastern governorates of Hadramout and Al-Mahrah.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Grundberg reiterated the UN Secretary-General's appeal for restraint, de-escalation, and dialogue, urging all factions to avoid actions that could exacerbate the situation.
He emphasized the significance of ongoing regional mediation efforts, stating that he is actively engaging with Yemeni and regional stakeholders to support de-escalation and progress towards a comprehensive and inclusive political solution to the ongoing conflict in Yemen, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
These comments came in the wake of Saudi Arabia executing airstrikes on Friday targeting sites associated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC), including positions of the Hadrami Elite Forces in the Ghayl bin Yamin area, which is near vital oil fields. Fortunately, no casualties or damage to military equipment were reported.
The airstrikes followed the STC's recent military expansion in eastern Yemen. On December 3, STC forces gained control of Hadramout after confrontations with pro-government units and subsequently extended their influence into the eastern province of Al-Mahrah without any reported resistance. The group has since recruited local forces in both provinces, despite ongoing calls for de-escalation from the Yemeni government and Saudi Arabia.
Earlier in the day, Turki Al Maliki, spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, stated that any military movements undermining de-escalation efforts would be addressed to protect civilians, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.
Rashad Al-Alimi, Chairman of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), expressed support for the coalition's actions to mitigate what he referred to as destabilizing activities by the STC in the two governorates.
Established in 2017, the STC advocates for self-determination and eventual independence for southern Yemen. Although it joined the Saudi-led coalition and became part of Yemen's internationally recognized government in 2022, the group continues to pursue southern secession. The STC has accused previous Yemeni governments of politically and economically marginalizing the south, a claim that Yemeni authorities reject.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe how the UN and regional powers navigate the complex landscape of Yemen. The calls for restraint from the UN envoy highlight the urgent need for dialogue in a conflict that has persisted far too long. The involvement of influential players like Saudi Arabia adds a layer of complexity to the situation, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to peace.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the UN envoy's call for restraint in Yemen?
The UN envoy's call for restraint comes amidst rising tensions and military actions in Yemen's eastern governorates, particularly following airstrikes by Saudi Arabia targeting the Southern Transitional Council.
What is the Southern Transitional Council's role in the conflict?
The Southern Transitional Council seeks self-determination for southern Yemen and has been involved in military actions that have escalated tensions with the Yemeni government.
What measures are being taken to de-escalate the situation?
The UN envoy emphasizes dialogue and restraint, while regional mediation efforts are ongoing to support a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
