Houthis wants to discuss the “humanitarian situation” before a political settlement

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

The change within 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 a world approach to carry the Houthis liable 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 therefore 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 satisfy with the UN envoy during his last visit to Muscat a few 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 debate the United Nations’ decide to achieve a nationwide ceasefire in Yemen.

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

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