UN Special Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths said on Tuesday that the continued closure of Sana’a Airport and the restrictions on fuel and preventing it from entering Hodeida port are unjustified measures that must be addressed.
This came in his briefing to the UN Security Council, which is holding today a special session to discuss the situation in Yemen.
The UN envoy stressed that a nationwide cease-fire would have undeniable humanitarian value.
Griffiths explained that the two parties have not yet overcome their differences to reach an agreement, as Ansarullah insists on a separate agreement regarding ports and airports as a precondition for a ceasefire and the political process, while Hadi’s government loyal to Saudi-led coalition insists on implementing all measures as a single package, including the start of a ceasefire.
He indicated that Yemenis have formed alliances and implemented initiatives ranging from non-partisan media platforms to civil society organizations and community safety networks, adding “these brave efforts are the hope and future of the country, and it is our duty to support them.”
Griffiths continued: “Yemen needs a comprehensive political process and a settlement to move away from the cycles of conflict.”
In his briefing, the UN envoy stressed the need for a political settlement that reflects the interests of the various parties and guarantees the interests and rights of the people most affected by the conflict.
“For its survival and the well-being of its citizens, Yemen needs a government that is accountable to its people and united to support basic rights and an open and prosperous economy,” he said.
