'Uphold international humanitarian law' UN chief tells parties to Yemen conflict
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern on Wednesday over the “recent and sharp escalation” in the Yemen conflict, calling on all
parties to make civilian protection a priority.
Civil conflict deepened across the country in 2015, when a Saudi-led coalition intensified military operations against
Houthi rebels who control the capital Sana’a.
Coalition airstrikes hit a government building in the densely-populated Tahrir district of the capital on Monday,
reportedly killing six people, and rebels fired several missiles in the days that followed towards different targets in
Saudi Arabia.
“The Secretary-General reminds all parties to the conflict that they must uphold international humanitarian law,
including taking steps to protect civilians,” said a statement issued on behalf of the Secretary-General, by his
Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
“All potential violations of international humanitarian law should be thoroughly investigated and those responsible for
violations must be held accountable,” added the statement.
Mr. Dujarric emphasized the Secretary-General’s appeal not to escalate the fighting further “as this adversely impacts
the chances for peace.”
Since political unrest first began in Yemen in early 2011, the UN has been engaged in helping Yemenis to find a peaceful
solution. However, fighting continues and the ensuing humanitarian crisis has only deepened in a country that was
already one of the region’s poorest.
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“A negotiated political settlement through inclusive intra-Yemeni dialogue is the only way to end the conflict and
address the ongoing humanitarian crisis,” said the statement.