UN Envoy in Yemen Presses for Expanded Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access

Special UN Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, arrived in Sana’a to discuss how to implement and strengthen the nationwide ceasefire that has been in effect since April 2. This marked the envoy’s first trip to the country since taking on the post in August 2021. The office of the envoy emphasized that the visit would center on dialogue with the Houthi movement, also known as Ansar Allah.

The purpose of Grundberg’s visit was to address mutual accusations over ceasefire violations by the Yemeni government-aligned forces and the Houthis. Government officials reported clashes near Marib, while Houthi forces cited violations near the port city of Hodeidah.

During the visit, Grundberg aimed to invite representatives from both sides to resolve outstanding issues and broaden the ceasefire. The current agreement allows fuel deliveries to Hodeidah and the resumption of passenger flights from Sana’a airport, both under Houthi control. He also pressed for road openings in Taiz province and other areas where access remains restricted for civilians and aid workers.

On the eve of his Sana’a trip, Grundberg held separate meetings with leaders from the warring parties in Oman, focusing on sustaining the ceasefire, restoring international air traffic, and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches Yemen. The talks took place amid ongoing hostilities within the republic, where fighting has persisted for years.

war in Yemen

The humanitarian situation in Yemen is widely described as dire by the United Nations and other humanitarian groups. For nearly a decade, Yemen has endured a full-scale civil war between the Houthi movement and government forces, contributing to widespread suffering.

the war in Yemen

The roots of the conflict trace back to 2004, when initial Houthi protests escalated into an insurgency and were quelled by government forces in 2009 with international support. Renewed clashes resurfaced, and by 2014 the struggle intensified into a civil war. In early 2015, the Houthis seized Sana’a, captured the president, and reshaped the political framework while ceasefire attempts were pursued under international mediation. The Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia intervened with airstrikes and on-the-ground support, complicating efforts toward peace.

According to the Yemeni Center for Human Rights Ain al-Insania, the total fatalities from the conflict exceed 46,000, with thousands more injured. The toll on children remains alarmingly high, underscoring the urgent need for a lasting ceasefire and access to humanitarian relief.

How has a ceasefire been pursued in Yemen?

A nationwide ceasefire demands sustained calm for a period of at least 60 days. The recent agreement emerged amid a broader military operation by the Saudi-led coalition, which sparked a wave of airstrikes before negotiations produced a framework that allowed certain humanitarian and civil services to resume. Civilian casualties have remained devastating, with tens of thousands affected across the country.

The Houthis did not participate directly in the talks hosted in Saudi Arabia, but they eventually signaled support for a ceasefire on Yemeni soil. Their leadership had earlier criticized the plan to establish a Presidential Governance Council as part of a transition, arguing that lasting peace requires the withdrawal of foreign troops and the cessation of external aggression—principles at the heart of their position.

Why does Riyadh face international scrutiny over its Yemen actions?

Despite condemnations or calls from the UN and other bodies, there is often little appetite for punitive action against Riyadh. Some observers point to Saudi Arabia’s strategic involvement in the region, its oil interests, and its political influence as factors shaping the global response. Analysts note that Riyadh has positioned itself as a key actor in Middle East affairs, which affects how international sentiment translates into action.

Scholars emphasize the role of major powers, including the United States and European governments, in shaping policy toward Yemen. The Saudi government’s alliances and economic leverage contribute to the international stance, even when criticism is voiced. Contemporary commentary reflects a nuanced view of accountability and regional security concerns.

Experts also highlight Saudi Arabia’s enduring influence in the Middle East and beyond, noting the country’s strategic partnerships and regional leadership. This complexity helps explain why sanctions or strong sanctions measures have not been widely pursued in this context.

What are the chances for a durable solution?

Analysts suggest that negotiations that exclude the Houthis have limited impact on the core conflict. Any lasting agreement will require broader participation and credible commitments from all parties. Political observers argue that a lasting settlement hinges on a mix of concessions, security guarantees, and international support. The path forward remains uncertain, with many factors shaping the likelihood of a meaningful breakthrough.

Some experts caution that without a unifying political framework, the ceasefire could be fragile. The presence of key figures linked to external interests and the challenge of uniting the northern and southern populations add to the complexity. Nevertheless, there is cautious optimism that renewed dialogue could pave the way for a more stable environment, provided there is genuine compromise and sustained international engagement.