UN Representative Advocates for Peace and Detainee Release in Yemen During Sanaa Visit
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Aden, Jan 9 (NationPress) The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has wrapped up a significant visit to Sanaa on Thursday, during which he engaged in talks with key political and military leaders regarding the advancement of peace initiatives and the unconditional release of detainees.
As per a statement from the envoy's office, Grundberg highlighted the vital necessity for both national and regional de-escalation to foster conditions conducive to dialogue. He further advocated for tangible actions to propel the political process aimed at realizing enduring peace and stability throughout Yemen.
“I am committed to preserving the progress achieved thus far on the roadmap and maintaining focus on the opportunities for peace in Yemen,” Grundberg stated, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The envoy's visit also encompassed discussions surrounding conflict-related detainees, building on negotiations that took place in Oman in July 2024. Grundberg underscored that addressing the detainee situation is critical for instilling confidence between involved parties and showcasing dedication to the peace process.
Grundberg began his visit at the residence of a UN colleague's family member, who has been imprisoned by the Houthi group since June 2024. He fervently called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained individuals from the UN, NGOs, civil society, and diplomatic missions, emphasizing that such detentions breach international law.
“It is imperative to safeguard the role of civil society and humanitarian personnel. They play essential roles in fostering peace and reconstructing Yemen,” the envoy asserted.
On Monday, Grundberg made his way to the Yemeni capital Sanaa, marking his first visit in nearly two years as part of efforts to revitalize the stalled peace process.
This visit represents the UN envoy's first trip in almost two years, as escalating tensions and the detention of international personnel have impeded the advancement of peace negotiations.
Throughout the past two years, the Houthis have apprehended numerous employees from UN agencies and both international and local NGOs.
Since October 2, 2022, Yemen has experienced a period of tentative calm, following the failure of the government and the Houthi group to renew and expand a UN-mediated truce.
Despite extensive diplomatic endeavors, neither party has demonstrated a willingness to resume discussions to resolve the conflict, which the UN estimates has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and pushed millions to the edge of famine in Yemen.
