As tensions worsen across the Middle East region, Yemen’s plight has become increasingly intertwined with wider geopolitical dynamics, the UN Special Envoy for the country said on Monday.
Hans Grundberg underscored the urgent need for de-escalation, warning of the perilous consequences of overlooking Yemen’s fragile stability amidst the broader regional crisis.
“We cannot risk Yemen’s chance for peace, becoming collateral damage,” he told ambassadors at the UN Security Council.
“If we leave Yemen’s political process in the waiting room and continue down this path of escalation, the consequences could be catastrophic, not only for Yemen, but also for the wider region,” he warned.
Special Envoy Hans Grundberg briefing the Security Council.
Worsening situation
Mr. Grundberg warned of the threat of further escalation as fighting continues in Gaza.
“The recent developments involving Iran and Israel underscore the urgency of this matter,” he said, stressing the region must, “with the support of the international community, seek avenues for coexistence based on incremental trust-building, mutual security, and a departure from the zero-sum mentality of achieving victory at the expense of others.”
At the same time, the situation within Yemen remains volatile with the Houthi rebels – also known as the Ansar Allah movement – continued targeting of commercial and military vessels, and the United States and the United Kingdom carrying out attacks in Hudaydah, Hajjaj, Sana’a and Ta’iz governorates.
Missed opportunities
Mr. Grundberg also lamented the missed opportunities for reconciliation that historically accompanied the holy month of Ramadan.
While past years had seen the parties agree to ceasefires and release detainees, this year witnessed a stark departure from such hopeful gestures, with detainees remaining in custody and further civilian casualties, including women and children.
“Instead of narrowing differences and building confidence, I am troubled by the apparent growing divergence between the parties,” he said, noting their unilateral actions that risk further bifurcating the economic system.
Director Edem Wosornu briefing the Security Council.
Humanitarian crisis
Against the backdrop of protracted political and security crisis, the humanitarian situation across Yemen remains dire with the reemergence of cholera and escalating levels of severe malnutrition.
Also briefing the Security Council, Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations at the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), highlighted that the most vulnerable Yemenis, including women, girls, displaced persons and marginalized groups, continue to depend on humanitarian aid for survival.
Furthermore, as the lean season approaches, hunger and nutrition insecurity is expected to worsen, placing millions at risk. While community-led initiatives provide temporary relief, sustained support is essential to stave off the looming crisis, Ms. Wosornu said.
However, the relief efforts are hampered by a concerning deficit in funding for the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan.
Despite efforts to streamline operations and reduce financial demands, the plan remains only 10 per cent funded as the year progresses, she added, calling for urgent action to bridge the funding gap and ensure that lifesaving assistance reaches those most in need.
Elliot is an award-winning journalist passionate about international affairs and humanitarian causes. Elliot has covered stories from conflict zones and areas devastated by disasters, highlighting critical global issues.
Hannah Stevens emphasizes the crucial need for de-escalation in Yemen to avoid catastrophic consequences within the broader Middle East region, as highlighted by Special Envoy Hans Grundberg. She stresses the importance of not neglecting Yemen’s fragile stability amidst the ongoing regional crisis, urging for a proactive approach towards peace and cooperation.
As tensions worsen across the Middle East region, it is crucial to heed Hans Grundberg’s warning about the perilous consequences of overlooking Yemen’s fragile stability amidst the broader regional crisis. We must prioritize de-escalation efforts to ensure that Yemen’s chance for peace is not sacrificed for the sake of wider geopolitical dynamics. The international community must work towards fostering mutual security and cooperation in the region to prevent catastrophic outcomes for Yemen and beyond.
Jenna Smith highlighted the importance of prioritizing de-escalation in Yemen’s crisis, emphasizing the potential catastrophic consequences of neglecting its fragile stability amidst the broader regional turmoil. She stressed the need for the international community to support avenues for coexistence and mutual security in the Middle East instead of pursuing a zero-sum mentality. Smith’s insights shed light on the urgent necessity to act swiftly to prevent further escalations in the region.
Hans Grundberg underscores the urgent need for de-escalation, warning of the perilous consequences of overlooking Yemen’s fragile stability amidst the broader regional crisis. “We cannot risk Yemen’s chance for peace, becoming collateral damage,” she told ambassadors at the UN Security Council. “If we leave Yemen’s political process in the waiting room and continue down this path of escalation, the consequences could be catastrophic, not only for Yemen, but also for the wider region,” she warned.
Ms. Thompson echoed Special Envoy Grundberg’s sentiments, emphasizing the crucial need for de-escalation in Yemen. She expressed concerns over the potential catastrophic outcomes if Yemen’s political process continues to be neglected amidst the broader regional crisis. Ms. Thompson highlighted the importance of seeking peaceful coexistence supported by the international community to avoid further escalation and prioritize mutual security over a zero-sum approach.
Hannah Richards emphasizes the crucial need for de-escalation, pointing out the dangerous consequences of disregarding Yemen’s delicate stability amidst the overarching regional crisis. “We must not jeopardize Yemen’s opportunity for peace, risking it to be mere collateral damage,” she conveyed to diplomats at the UN Security Council. Hannah cautioned, “If we keep Yemen’s political process on hold and continue on the path of escalation, the outcomes could be catastrophic, not only for Yemen but also for the broader region.”
Does the UN Special Envoy believe that international intervention could prevent further escalation in Yemen and contribute to lasting peace in the region?
How can we ensure Yemen’s political process doesn’t get overshadowed by the broader regional crisis? What specific steps are being taken to prioritize peace in Yemen amidst the escalating tensions?
Could you provide more details on Yemen’s specific role in the broader regional crisis mentioned in the article?
As tensions worsen across the Middle East region, Yemen’s plight has become increasingly intertwined with wider geopolitical dynamics. The urgent need for de-escalation in Yemen cannot be overlooked. Hans Grundberg’s warning about Yemen’s fragile stability amidst the broader regional crisis is crucial. The consequences of neglecting Yemen’s chance for peace could be catastrophic, not only for Yemen but also for the wider region.
Do you think the international community is doing enough to address the crisis in Yemen and prevent further escalation in the region?