UN Security Council members waited for hours on Wednesday for Russia’s approval of a UK-drafted statement expressing “grave concern” over the rising violence caused by the Iran-backed Houthi militias in several Yemeni provinces.
The draft statement, a copy of which was obtained by Asharq Al-Awsat, stressed the need to ensure accountability for violations in Yemen.
If all member states agree on it, it would be automatically issued by the Council. Yet diplomats have pointed out that Russia was reluctant to approve the proposed draft.
In the draft statement, Council members express deep concern over the rising violence in Nihm, Jawf and Marib, as well as its impact on civilians, most of whom have been displaced in recent days.
They also express disappointment over the renewal of violence, which threatens to undermine the recent progress made in Yemen.
They call on Yemeni parties to immediately cease hostilities that threaten the political process, and halt escalation.
The draft statement called on all parties to fulfill their obligations under international humanitarian law, including protecting civilians, especially women and children.
Council members affirmed their full support for the efforts of UN Special Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths, expressing their hope that the renewed escalation would push Yemeni parties closer to UN-led negotiations, regarding the necessary security and political arrangements to end the conflict.
They welcomed the January 27 announcement of an air corridor from Sanaa to Amman and Cairo, considering it a “major confidence-building measure.”
Council members also reiterated in the draft statement their call on the Yemeni parties to maintain the ceasefire in Hodeidah and continue to implement the Stockholm Agreement more broadly.
They said this shall come in line with efforts to reach a comprehensive political solution, as stipulated in the relevant Security Council resolutions, including resolution 2216, as well as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) initiative and its implementation mechanism, and outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference.
