As fighting in Yemen has intensified again in recent days, UN Special Envoy for Yemen Grundberg called on the parties to halt hostile actions and exercise maximum restraint.
In a written statement published on the UN website, Grundberg said attacks carried out by the Houthis on several fronts had increased the risk of the conflict expanding in scope, describing the development as "extremely dangerous." He said reports that civilians had been killed and wounded, families displaced and civilian infrastructure damaged were a cause for grave concern.
Call to protect civilians
Grundberg said the parties must make full use of existing communication channels to prevent further escalation and called for the use of existing mechanisms, including the UN Military Coordination Committee.
Grundberg also called on all parties to fulfill their obligations under international humanitarian law. He stressed that civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected.
Call to return to political negotiations
Noting that Yemen had been affected by conflict for more than a decade, Grundberg said a return to widespread and sustained fighting would have severe consequences for civilians. He said such a development would further complicate the already difficult process of reaching a political solution.
Grundberg said a credible political process was needed to meet the Yemeni people's demand for security, effective institutions and a future beyond conflict. He said the process must address the political, security and economic issues underlying the conflict.
Grundberg said he would continue direct contacts with the parties to contain the current tensions and preserve space for dialogue. He called on regional and international actors to use their influence to de-escalate tensions and return to political negotiations.
Fighting continues in Yemen
The Iran-backed Houthis have controlled parts of Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa, since 2014. The Arab Coalition, led by Saudi Arabia, has supported the Yemeni government since 2015.
Fighting between the Houthis and forces aligned with the internationally recognized legitimate government continues in various parts of Yemen.
