Yemen: needs sustainable, negotiated political settlement - Media Stakeout | United Nations

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on all parties in Yemen to “exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and resolve differences through dialogue.” He also “strongly” condemned the continued arbitrary detention of UN staff and partner personnel.

Guterres spoke to reporters after a closed consultation on the situation in Yemen.

Guterres pointed out that earlier this month, forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council – or STC – advanced on Hadramawt and al-Mahra, adding that he told the Security Council, unilateral actions will not clear a path to peace. A full resumption of hostilities could have serious ramifications on regional peace and security – including on the Red Sea, in the Gulf of Aden, and in the Horn of Africa, he said.

The UN chief urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, de-escalate tensions, and resolve differences through dialogue. “This includes regional stakeholders, whose constructive engagement and coordination in support of UN mediation efforts are essential for ensuring collective security interests,” he said.

Guterres continued, “The sovereignty and territorial integrity in Yemen must be reserved. Yemen needs a sustainable, negotiated political settlement where it embraces the aspirations of all Yemenis; And brings this devastating conflict to an end.”

The Secretary-General also strongly condemned the continued arbitrary detention of 59 UN colleagues and partner personnel – as well as staff from NGOs, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions.

He called for their “immediate and unconditional release, in accordance with international law.”

Guterres also noted that in recent days, Houthi de facto authorities referred three of UN colleagues to a special criminal court.

The UN chief stressed, “This referral must be rescinded. They have been charged in relating to their performance of United Nations official duties.”

He reiterated, “These charges must be dropped.’

“The continued detention of our colleagues is a profound injustice to all those who have dedicated their lives to helping the people of Yemen,” Guterres underscored, adding that the United Nations and its partners “must never be targeted, arrested, or detained in connection with their official duties.”

“We must be allowed to perform our work without interference,” the Secretary-General emphasized.

Guterres concluded by saying the path to peace is possible, and the United Nations remains committed to supporting the Yemeni people along this path.