In his final briefing for the year, Hans Grundberg highlighted the immense turmoil and tragedy that plagued the Middle East region in 2024. He specifically mentioned the profound loss suffered by many, especially in Yemen, due to violent conflicts. Grundberg emphasized the urgent need for stabilization in the Middle East, including Yemen, as recent dramatic developments in Lebanon and Syria have further intensified the already dire situation.
Yemen has been embroiled in a conflict for over a decade, with Government forces backed by a Saudi-led coalition clashing with Houthi rebels. This ongoing strife has made Yemen one of the top humanitarian crises in the world, with economic deterioration exacerbating the suffering of its people. The war in Gaza has also added to the chaos, with the Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, targeting commercial ships in the Red Sea and launching missiles and drones at Israeli cities.
Despite these challenges, Grundberg highlighted some positive steps taken by Yemen in recent years, such as the UN-brokered truce agreement in 2022, major exchanges of conflict-related detainees, and commitments made by all sides to advance peace efforts under a UN roadmap. He stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement by the UN, regional powers, and international actors as the most effective pathway to achieving sustainable peace in Yemen.
Grundberg urged all parties, the region, and the international community to capitalize on these moments of progress to move towards peace and alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people. He emphasized that ending the war is still within reach if the parties actively engage with the UN’s roadmap, which aims to deliver a ceasefire, implement economic measures like the sustainable payment of salaries, and prepare for an inclusive political process.
The UN envoy reiterated the need for the immediate and unconditional release of UN staff and other personnel who have been arbitrarily detained by the Houthis for six months. He also expressed concern about ongoing Houthi activity in the Red Sea, attacks on Israel, and airstrikes launched by the United States and the United Kingdom in response. These developments have hindered Grundberg’s mediation efforts and further escalated tensions in the region.
Grundberg warned that failure to create a conducive environment for resolving the conflict in Yemen would only embolden those who seek a return to war. He urged all involved parties to take necessary steps to ensure a peaceful resolution and prevent further suffering for the Yemeni people.
The situation in Yemen remains fragile, with the conflict showing no signs of abating. Grundberg’s call for urgent action and diplomatic engagement serves as a reminder of the pressing need for stability and peace in the Middle East, particularly in Yemen where the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen. As the year comes to a close, the international community must prioritize efforts to address the root causes of conflict and work towards a lasting solution that brings relief and hope to the people of Yemen.
