By: Zain Al-Abidine Othman
As we’ve just heard from the UN, the conflict in Yemen has caused the world’s most devastating humanitarian crisis. Over 22 million people – more than three quarters of the population – are now in need of humanitarian assistance. Of these 22 million people, more than half require immediate help to save or sustain life. These people will not survive unless they receive assistance.
All plans and efforts to improve access are welcome. Eighty per cent of Yemen’s imports enter the country through these ports. However, aid alone will not address the needs of the Yemeni people. Imports of food, fuel, and medicine continue to remain well below levels of need. The aggression must allow unhindered commercial and humanitarian access throughout Yemen, which is essential to avert the risk of mass starvation.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has not only given rise to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. It’s also created ungoverned spaces that terrorists can operate in; posed security threats to regional countries and international shipping; and fuelled regional tensions.
Humanitarian aid and access will only provide temporary relief for the people of Yemen. Ultimately, a political settlement is by far the best way to address the humanitarian crisis and security threats emanating from Yemen.
Is it the time to witness positive changes under the management of “Martin” in International Mediation to resolve the issue Yemen and stop the humanitarian and economic crisis, or “Martin” will take the footsteps of Ismail Ould Sheikh and take the path of alignment?
Instead, Saudi Arabia and other countries should face international sanctions. Imposing targeted sanctions for the indiscriminate bombing and unlawful blockading of essential goods to Yemen’s civilian population is well within the U.N. Security Council’s mandate.
In conclusion, there is no doubt that the Yemeni people will not wait until the world awakens from its human hibernation or the United Nations intervenes to stop the Saudi aggression and will not wait for peace that will not come. It has the strength and sufficient capacity to break the bonds of this aggression.
