UN warns of escalating conflict in Yemen amid humanitarian crisis, regional tensions — Global Issues

The crisis in Yemen, which worsened in 2014 after Houthi rebels (officially known as Ansar Allah) seized the capital, is marked by complex political and military tensions. More than 18 million people – half the country’s population – remain dependent on humanitarian aid and protection.

Hans Grundberg, the UN special envoy for Yemen, told the Security Council While violence levels remain below pre-2022 ceasefire levels, fighting in regions such as Hudaida and Ta’iz continues to claim lives.

“The current dynamics are a stark reminder that the threat of a return to full-scale war is still there.“, he warned.

Regional tensions continue

Mr Grundberg noted that regional tensions resulting from the war in Gaza further complicate the crisis in Yemen.

Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea have continued, threatening regional stability and international maritime security. In response, the United States and the United Kingdom continue to strike military targets in Yemen.

“I reiterate my concern about this escalatory course and reiterate my call on the parties to put Yemen first and prioritize a resolution of the conflict in Yemen.“, he said.

Mr Grundberg highlighted the recent attack by Houthi forces on the Greek-flagged oil tanker MV Sounion, which poses the risk of a catastrophic oil spill. He warned of an environmental disaster for Yemen and the wider region.

Committed to solving the crisis

Work continues to resolve the crisis, with the special envoy stressing the need for continued dialogue and cooperation across conflict lines.

“Try to use the July 23 agreement (on economic de-escalation) as a stepping stone to depoliticize the economy and move parties from a zero-sum mentality to a collaborative mentality“, he said, stressing the importance of continued engagement.

He also pointed to the ongoing consultations with Yemeni civil society, including women, youth and vulnerable groups, as part of a broader push for an inclusive peace process.

Finally, Mr Grundberg reaffirmed his “unwavering determination” to work with all parties to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace in Yemen.

No time to waste, saving lives

Joyce Msuya, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, also briefed the Security Council. marked the severe hardships faced by Yemenis.

She warned that more than 62 percent of households in the country do not have enough food, with some areas, such as Hudaydah and Taiz, experiencing extremely severe malnutrition.

“By the end of 2024, it is estimated that more than 600,000 children in Yemeni government-controlled areas will be severely malnourished, and approximately 118,000 people are expected to suffer from severe acute malnutrition “- a 34 percent increase since 2023,” she said.

“Time is of the essence if we are to avoid catastrophe.”

Reaction Challenges

Ms. Msuya also expressed her deep concern about the continued arbitrary detention of UN personnel and non-governmental organization (NGO) personnel by the Houthi authorities. She urged their immediate release and respect for humanitarian law.

Thirteen UN staff were arrested in Juneand since 2021 and 2023, four more have been detained, who have no contact with their family and authorities.

She too false accusations dismissed against the UN and aid agencies and workers, warning that such claims jeopardize the safety and operations of humanitarian actors trying to alleviate suffering.

The senior UN aid official concluded her briefing by emphasizing that the humanitarian community is determined to stay in Yemen and provide assistance – “as best we can, for as long as it takes.”

“To do this, We need the parties to respect international humanitarian law – by immediately releasing our detained colleaguesprotecting civilians and humanitarian workers, and facilitating unimpeded humanitarian access.”