UN Envoy Hans Grundberg condemns Houthi attack on UN office in Sanaa as a severe threat to the UN’s mission and capabilities.

Rising Tensions in Yemen

In a significant development that raises concerns about the wider trajectory of the Houthi movement, the United Nations envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, reported a troubling incident involving the Houthi forces. On August 3, the Houthi rebels forcibly shut down and stormed the United Nations Human Rights office in Sanaa, marking a severe attack on the UN’s ability to fulfill its mission in the country.

During a session of the UN Security Council, Grundberg emphasized the critical nature of human rights protection, not just for the immediate welfare of Yemenis but also for safeguarding the future of Yemen. He highlighted the alarming situation where dozens of people, including 13 UN staff members, remain detained in undisclosed locations.

A Plea for Release and Peace

Grundberg made a heartfelt plea for the release of the detained individuals, urging for their return to roles that are pivotal in serving the Yemeni people through humanitarian aid, development assistance, peacebuilding, human rights advocacy, mediation efforts, and the protection of cultural heritage.

Continued Aggression at Sea

The envoy also pointed out the ongoing attacks by Houthi forces on ships navigating the Red Sea, despite serious efforts to shield Yemen from such regional escalations. He renewed his call for all Yemeni parties, particularly the Houthis, to prioritize the welfare of Yemeni citizens and to seek solutions to the country’s challenges.

Efforts to Halt Escalation

Grundberg acknowledged the efforts, supported by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, that have successfully halted a dangerous cycle of escalation affecting Yemen’s banking and transport sectors, which had threatened to reignite military conflict.

Commitment to Open Channels

In concluding his briefing, the UN envoy reaffirmed his office’s commitment to keeping all communication channels open. This includes discussions on the economy, nationwide ceasefire initiatives, other security arrangements, the political process, and the release of detainees linked to the conflict.

This incident represents a serious challenge to the United Nations’ mission in Yemen and underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in the country.

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