Houthis Want to Discuss ‘Humanitarian Situation’ Ahead of Political Settlement

Houthis yielded to international pressures and announced their readiness to discuss taking humanitarian measures in preparation for a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive political settlement.

The change in the group’s position came after their meeting with the UN envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths in Muscat, Oman.

Western sources told Asharq Al-Awsat about an international approach to hold the Houthis responsible for obstructing the ceasefire agreement in Yemen.

The move enjoys international support and paves the way for a comprehensive political solution to the country’s conflict that erupted since 2014.

In March, Saudi Arabia presented an initiative for a ceasefire and the opening of Sanaa airport and Hodeidah port in line with the Stockholm Agreement.

Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul Salam said that the meeting with the UN envoy and his team addressed the humanitarian agreement and expediting its implementation. He indicated that this paves the way for broader discussions for a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive political settlement.

Houthis refused to meet with the UN envoy during his last visit to Muscat about a month ago. They wanted to avoid discussing any peace initiatives proposed to resolve the Yemeni crisis.

Griffiths concluded Wednesday a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia where he met with senior Saudi and Yemeni officials to discuss the United Nations’ plan to achieve a nationwide ceasefire in Yemen.

He met with Saudi Deputy Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman and the US Special Envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking.

Prince Khalid affirmed the Kingdom’s keenness to reach a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis, and the Kingdom’s support the UN efforts.