Statement by the Delegation of Brazil at the UNSC monthly meeting on Yemen - January 16th, 2023
Mr. President,
We thank Special Envoy Grundberg and USG Griffiths for their detailed and informative remarks on the situation in Yemen. We also welcome the delegations of Yemen and Saudi Arabia to this meeting and look forward to their views on the matter at hand.
Mr. President,
In the midst of an eight-year-long protracted civil war, Yemen`s legitimate government and the Houthi militia agreed last April to a two-month comprehensive ceasefire. Shortly thereafter, a new governing body emerged in Yemen, the Presidential Leadership Council.
While negotiations proceeded, the much-needed respite in the conflict brought about a series of benefits to the country, including a substantial decrease in displacement, the resumption of commercial flights to and from Sana`a International Airport, and the reentering of fuel tankers into Hudaydah port.
Notwithstanding considerable doubt that it would hold, the agreement rather went on to be twice renewed and resulted in the lowest level of war-related casualties since the beginning of 2015. In fact, even after its regrettable formal expiry in October, the ceasefire continues to benefit the long-suffering Yemeni population.
As Special Envoy Grundberg has previously indicated, the enduring effects of the ceasefire represent a unique window of opportunity for a political settlement that should not be overlooked by the parties.
To waste this opportunity would mean worsening the suffering of Yemeni men, women, and children. Even in the absence of large-scale hostilities, the persistence of the status quo hinders development and prolongs the dire humanitarian crisis in the country. Let us renew our resolve to avoid this path and contribute to a new era for all Yemenis.
Mr. President,
Hundreds of thousands of people have already perished, and, according to OCHA, around 20 million people will require humanitarian assistance in 2023. The economic conditions exacerbate an already alarming food insecurity crisis in the country that further aggravate the security situation.
We urge all parties to comply with their obligations under International Humanitarian Law and to refrain from measures undermining the provision of humanitarian assistance.
Mr. President,
Brazil reiterates its steadfast support to Special Envoy Grundberg`s efforts in favor of a sustainable resolution of the conflict. Brazil supports a ceasefire agreement in Yemen, which can lead to a comprehensive political process, under the UN`s auspices and with the inclusion of relevant Yemeni groups. We urge the belligerent parties to show the necessary flexibility and to engage constructively in meaningful dialogue, with no preconditions, to pave the way for a future of peace, stability and development for Yemen.
Thank you.