Yemen Conflict Update: UN Envoy Calls for Ceasefire and Release of Detained Personnel

Detention of UN Personnel and Call for Release

• 😔 The briefing begins by marking one year since the arbitrary detention of dozens of personnel from the UN, NGOs, and diplomatic missions in Yemen.
• 📢 The UN Special Envoy strongly calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, emphasizing the shamefulness of their continued imprisonment.
• 🤝 The UN pledges to stand with the families of those detained and urges the Security Council to exert maximum pressure on Ansar Allah for their release.

Fragile Frontlines and Risk of Escalation

• ⚠️ Multiple frontlines across Yemen remain fragile, with a significant risk of descending into more active fighting.
• 📍 Marib is highlighted as a particular cause for concern due to reports of troop movements and occasional flare-ups.
• 🕊️ There is a shared responsibility for all actors to step away from confrontation and resume discussions on a comprehensive ceasefire.

Red Sea Stability and Economic Hardship

• 🚢 Following the cessation of hostilities agreement in the Red Sea, efforts are underway to build on this to provide durable guarantees for the region.
• ✈️ Attacks by Ansar Allah on targets in Israel and subsequent Israeli strikes on Huda port, Saleif Port, and Sana International Airport have disrupted civilian travel, including for medical treatment and Hajj.
• 📉 Yemen's economy is in dire need of positive steps, with citizens shouldering the impacts of an economy in freefall; allowing oil and gas exports and facilitating the flow of goods are critical.
• ✊ Women are leading protests demanding solutions to economic deterioration and lack of basic services, highlighting the need for a dignified life and accountability.

Path to a Negotiated Settlement

• 🤝 A general consensus exists among the government of Yemen, Ansar Allah, and regional actors that only a negotiated settlement can resolve the conflict and provide regional guarantees.
• 🛣️ Progress is being made towards a roadmap that includes a comprehensive ceasefire, critical economic measures, and an inclusive political process.
• ⚖️ The release of conflict-related detainees has slowed significantly, and the UN calls on parties to reprioritize this humanitarian file based on the 'all for all' principle.
• 🌍 Peace in Yemen is framed not just as threat containment but as an opportunity to realize the country's potential, rich history, and the promises of its people.