Yemen: Security Council votes on final extension of Hudaydah Mission

Yemen: Security Council votes on final extension of Hudaydah Mission

**UN Security Council Approves Final Extension for Hodeidah Mission**

**New York, NY** – The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution extending the mandate of the UN Mission in Hodeidah (UNMHA) for a final two-month period, a decision that will see the mission continue its work in the critical Yemeni port city until March 31st of the current year. The vote, held on Tuesday, marks a significant moment for the UN’s efforts to support peace and stability in Yemen, particularly concerning the vital humanitarian and commercial gateway of Hodeidah.

The UNMHA was established to monitor the implementation of the Stockholm Agreement, a landmark ceasefire and redeployment accord reached in December 2018 between the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels. A cornerstone of this agreement was the establishment of a UN-administered neutral administration in Hodeidah and the withdrawal of forces from the city and its ports. The mission’s primary objective has been to oversee the ceasefire, facilitate the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid, and support the governance of the port, which handles the vast majority of Yemen’s imports, including essential food and medicine.

This latest extension signifies a crucial, albeit temporary, continuation of the UN’s presence and oversight in Hodeidah. While the resolution provides a final two-month window, the underlying objective remains the long-term resolution of the conflict and the establishment of sustainable peace in Yemen. The Security Council’s decision underscores the persistent challenges in achieving a comprehensive political settlement, while simultaneously acknowledging the indispensable role UNMHA plays in preventing further escalation and mitigating the humanitarian catastrophe.

The situation in Yemen continues to be one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with millions facing starvation and disease. The port of Hodeidah is therefore not merely a strategic location but a lifeline for a population teetering on the brink. The presence of UNMHA is intended to ensure that this lifeline remains open and accessible to all, free from the disruptions and dangers of ongoing conflict. The mission’s observers and personnel work tirelessly to de-escalate tensions, investigate alleged ceasefire violations, and foster an environment conducive to humanitarian operations.

The finality of this extension suggests that the international community is urging all parties to the conflict to redouble their efforts towards a lasting political solution. The Security Council’s action, while providing a much-needed extension for the mission’s vital work, also serves as a clear signal that the time for protracted conflict is drawing to a close. The coming months will be critical in determining the future of Hodeidah and, by extension, the trajectory of peace efforts in Yemen.

As the UNMHA embarks on its final two months, the international community will be watching closely to see if this period can be leveraged to achieve significant progress towards a comprehensive peace agreement. The success of this final extension will hinge on the commitment of all Yemeni stakeholders to engage constructively and prioritize the well-being of their citizens over continued hostilities. The world remains hopeful that this extension will ultimately pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future for Yemen, free from the ravages of war.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.