United Nations's video: UN Chief on a two-month truce in Yemen - Security Council Stakeout 1 April 2022 United Nations

Media Stakeout by António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, on a two-month truce in Yemen. Speaking to reporters on Friday (01 Apr), UN Secretary-General António Guterres commended the Government of Yemen, the Saudi-led Coalition, and the Houthis for agreeing on a two-month truce in Yemen, including cross-border attacks. He also urged all parties to make the necessary arrangements to support the successful implementation of the truce and to operationalize cooperation mechanisms without delay. The parties accepted to halt all offensive military air, ground, and maritime operations inside Yemen and across its borders. They also agreed for fuel ships to enter Hudaydah ports and commercial flights to operate in and out of Sana’a airport to predetermined destinations in the region. They further agreed to meet under the auspices of my Special Envoy to open roads in Taiz and other governorates in Yemen. The Truce can be renewed beyond the two-month period with the consent of the parties. “This truce, which has the possibility of renewal, coincides with the start of the holy month of Ramadan. It opens the door to addressing Yemen’s urgent humanitarian and economic needs and creates a genuine opportunity to restart Yemen’s political process,” said Guterres. He added, “This truce must be a first step to ending Yemen’s devastating war.” According to the Secretary-General, a halt to the fighting, coupled with the entry of fuel ships, and the easing of restrictions on the movement of people and goods in, out, and within the country, will contribute to building trust and creating a conducive environment to resume negotiations for a peaceful settlement of the conflict. Guterres urged the parties to build on this opportunity by cooperating in good faith and without preconditions with his Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, in his efforts to resume an inclusive and comprehensive Yemeni political process. He highlighted that the aim must be a negotiated political settlement “that addresses the legitimate concerns and aspirations of all Yemenis.” “Today must be the start of a better future for the people of Yemen,” the UN chief concluded.