UN envoy: The future of southern Yemen is for Yemenis to decide; dialogue in Saudi Arabia is key to addressing the southern issue.

UN Envoy Stresses Yemeni Ownership of Southern Future

The UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, emphasized that no single party can dictate the future of southern Yemen or impose it through force. He asserted that the ultimate decision rests with the Yemeni people themselves.

Importance of Political Dialogue

In his briefing to the Security Council, Grundberg highlighted President Rashad Mohammed Alimi’s initiative to host a dialogue in Saudi Arabia with various southern stakeholders. He described this initiative as a significant opportunity to address southern issues through political participation. Furthermore, he underscored the importance of comprehensive internal discussions to build consensus and lay the groundwork for a UN-sponsored political process.

Recent Political and Security Developments

Grundberg noted that Yemen has experienced rapid political and security changes in recent months, reshaping the landscape. He explained that the de-escalation since 2022 has provided temporary calm but is not the end of the journey. Instead, it represents a window that requires sustained political direction to transform this fragile stability into a lasting solution.

Tensions in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra

The envoy addressed recent developments in Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra, where forces linked to the Southern Transitional Council attempted to expand their presence in December. In response, government forces, including the National Army with Saudi support, moved in January to reassert control over the two governorates. Subsequently, these forces spread to Aden and other government areas to secure vital infrastructure. This situation coincided with political appointments and leadership decisions at both national and local levels.

Call for Regional and National Dialogue

Grundberg reiterated his support for regional and national efforts to address these developments through dialogue. He stressed that achieving sustainable solutions requires active Yemeni will and coordinated regional support.

Economic Institutions and Reforms

He welcomed the government’s statements on the necessity of keeping economic institutions, including the Central Bank, neutral from political and security disputes. Grundberg urged the maintenance of momentum in economic reforms, which play a crucial role in restoring trust and stability.

Commitment to Peaceful Engagement

The envoy affirmed that progress in Yemen hinges on the commitment of all parties, including the Houthis, to avoid escalation and engage in confidence-building measures. He referenced last month’s Muscat meeting, which brought together the government, coalition, and Houthis under UN auspices, resulting in an agreement on a new batch of detainees. He viewed this as a significant indicator of what political will can achieve, though he acknowledged the need for further efforts to complete the implementation.

Concerns Over Detained UN Personnel

In closing, Grundberg expressed deep concern over the ongoing detention of UN staff and humanitarian workers in Sana’a. He pointed out that the Houthis have detained more personnel and referred some to their own court, undermining the UN’s ability to operate and harming the Yemeni people. He called for the immediate release of all detainees and urged regional and international actors to leverage their influence to ensure this happens.

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