In an urgent briefing to the UN Security Council, the UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, warned today of the escalation of violence and ongoing human rights violations in the country, warning of serious repercussions for the future of Yemen and its people.

Grundberg stressed that the ongoing campaign of arbitrary arrests targeting activists and human rights defenders represents a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law. He called on all parties to immediately and unconditionally release all detainees.

Grundberg also condemned the attack on the Greek oil tanker, stressing that this escalation threatens maritime security and regional stability. He warned that such actions could lead to an environmental and humanitarian catastrophe.

With regard to the economic situation, Grundberg stressed that the economic crisis in Yemen is worsening significantly, which leads to aggravation of human suffering. He called on the international community to increase financial and humanitarian support for the Yemeni people.