The UN Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, recently concluded a series of discussions in Aden, Muscat, and Riyadh, focusing on the latest developments, economic challenges, and ongoing efforts to de-escalate the conflict in Yemen. Discussions also focused on the UN staff in arbitrary detention as well as on the need to allow the damaged M/T Sounion to be salvaged.

In Aden, Special Envoy Grundberg engaged in in-depth discussions with the President of the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) Rashad Al Alimi, and other senior officials. These discussions were pivotal in reinforcing the momentum of the current de-escalation efforts. The talks emphasized the critical importance of keeping the interests of the Yemeni people at the forefront, with a focus on sustained dialogue as the foundation for achieving a lasting and inclusive peace in Yemen.

Before his visit to Aden, the Special Envoy was in Muscat, where he held meetings with Omani officials. During these meetings, Special Envoy Grundberg expressed his appreciation for Oman’s role in advancing UN-led peace and stability efforts in Yemen.

While in Muscat, Special Envoy Grundberg also met with Mohammed Abdel Salam, the chief negotiator for Ansar Allah. He highlighted the urgent need for broader de-escalation across Yemen as well as addressing the ongoing challenges.

Earlier, the Special Envoy visited Riyadh, where he engaged in discussions with the Saudi Ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber, focusing on exploring ways to provide coordinated and effective support to the Yemeni parties, aiming to achieve de-escalation across Yemen amidst the broader context of regional tensions, and underscoring the importance of Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting mediation efforts.

Special Envoy Grundberg also convened with representatives from the P5 members of the UN Security Council. He stressed the critical need for a unified international approach to supporting a political process and achieving a ceasefire in Yemen.

"It is imperative that all parties prioritize the interests of the Yemeni people, placing them at the forefront. Constructive dialogue remains critical for achieving de-escalation and paving the way toward peace. I also echo the Secretary-General's urgent call for the immediate release of detained UN personnel. Targeting, arresting, or detaining UN staff while they fulfill their mandates is unacceptable." Hans Grundberg, UN Special Envoy for Yemen.