The European Union has reaffirmed its full support for the statement issued by UN Security Council members regarding the situation in Yemen, reiterating its ongoing backing for the efforts of the UN Special Envoy to Yemen and its commitment to working towards lasting peace and prosperity for the Yemeni people.
The EU called on all parties to de-escalate, stressing the importance of enhancing constructive diplomatic efforts, including the role of regional actors, to help push for a comprehensive and sustainable political solution to the conflict.
The EU welcomed the agreement reached in Muscat yesterday concerning the move to a new phase of operations to release conflict-related detainees held by all parties. It considered this step a positive indicator that should be built upon to bolster confidence and achieve tangible progress on the humanitarian track.
Furthermore, the EU reiterated its strong affirmation of commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
In the same context, the EU strongly condemned the continued detention by the Houthi re3bels of personnel from the United Nations system, national and international non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions. It demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees.
The EU statement comes hours after UN Security Council members called on the Southern Transitional Council to cease escalation and refrain from steps that would complicate the political situation. They simultaneously reaffirmed their strong commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, and their full support for international efforts aimed at ending the conflict and achieving lasting peace.