“Even as the conflict parties all profess to me their desire for peace, their focus remains on military options…[which] will not result in sustainable solutions”, he said.

Mr. Grundberg expressed alarm over an increased use of artillery, missiles and airstrikes – putting people, infrastructure and services at greater risk. Pointing to the summary execution of ten local security force members, he reminded that wars should still be subject to rules of engagement.

“All conflict actors…have obligations under international humanitarian law”, including protecting civilians and treating prisoners of war humanely.

Mr. Grundberg said that during his first three months on the job, he has been engaging with Yemenis on “how to reverse the current escalatory trajectory and start a political process”, and establishing “close and trustworthy relations” with States in the region, to move peace talks forward.

“As the conflict intensifies…I am convinced of the need for a comprehensive approach”, said the Special Envoy.

“We need to work toward a just and sustainable peace, and not merely the absence of war”, Mr. Grundberg spelled out, which requires coordinated international and regional support, to construct a “Yemeni owned and internationally-supported political process” that will result in broader stability.

The process should de-escalate violence, prevent further economic deterioration and mitigate the impact of the conflict on civilians while building consensus on a political settlement to sustainably end the war, establish inclusive governance, and ensure Yemenis’ civil, political, economic and cultural rights.

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