UN envoy alarmed by Houthi rhetoric, actions

United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg renewed on Monday his fear about threats to return to war, also expressing his concern about the Iran-backed Houthi militias’ rhetoric towards Marib.

During his monthly briefing to the UN Security Council, he said he met in the interim capital Aden Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council, Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, and Vice President Aidarous Al-Zubaidi, Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak and Foreign Minister Shayea Al-Zindani.

Grundberg acknowledged, however, that the challenges that he brought up in previous briefings are still impeding his progress, “most critically the precarious environment in the wider region.”

Moreover, Grundberg said he was also concerned “about the parties’ threats to return to war, including the Houthi rhetoric and actions in relation to Marib.”

The envoy said he was continuing engagements with the parties to make progress on the UN Roadmap, with the support of the international community and the region, notably Saudi Arabia and Oman.

He revealed that currently, his office is engaged with Yemenis to facilitate the release of conflict-related detainees, the opening of roads, and improvements in the economic and financial sector.

Furthermore, Grundberg said: “I am determined to continue directing all my efforts toward enabling Yemenis to reach a nationwide ceasefire and start an inclusive political process that lays the foundations for a lasting peace.”