Taiz, 30 December 2021 (TDI): The recent escalation in Yemen, according to the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has been one of the most severe in years. severest
During an airstrike on Sana’a, he claimed civilians were killed and non-combatant infrastructure was damaged. As a result of the ongoing offensive against Ma’rib, whereas a conservative estimate of 35,000 people has fled since September, there have been mass displacements, civilian casualties, and damage to civilian objects.
“Flagrant Violation”
At a press conference in Taiz, Yemen, UN Special Envoy, Hans Grundberg expressed his concern over sustained attacks on Saudi Arabia, which have resulted in civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction.
“Any attack that targets civilians, civilian objects, or indiscriminate attacks must cease immediately,” he said.
“A Tragic Note”
Grundberg argues that the escalation undermines any prospects for a lasting political settlement. Human rights and international humanitarian law violations cannot be tolerated, he stressed.
Yemen’s year ended on a tragic note for millions of Yemenis, who are suffering from drought, hunger, and severe restrictions on their freedom of movement.
He stressed that Sana’a Airport should be opened and obstacles to Yemeni movement within and between governorates should be removed, repeating the United Nations’ call.
Moreover, he reiterated that he was prepared to work with the concerned parties to find immediate solutions, address urgent humanitarian needs, and facilitate a political process.
UNESCO Detained Employees
UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet expressed concern for the well-being of two staff members who were detained in Sana’a late last month.
In a statement, Audrey Azoulay and Michelle Bachelet confirmed that no communication had been possible with the staff members since that time. Although the two employees of the UN Agency remain in custody, the organization has not received any information about the reasons or legal basis for their detention.
UN staff are still being held despite earlier assurances by Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis. UNESCO and OHCHR recalled that international law accords privileges and immunities to the staff of UN agencies when their services are essential. Audrey Azoulay and Michelle Bachelet again called for the immediate release of the staff members.
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