The UN envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in an interview with Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath channels, that the sinking of the ship Rubymar off Yemen after being targeted by a Houthi attack constitutes a major escalation, adding that he is following this matter with great concern.

The envoy revealed that 5 UN experts will be sent to study the environmental impact of the sinking of the ship Rubymar off Yemen.

In another context, Grundberg said that “the UN roadmap is mandatory for the Yemeni parties to reach a solution” to the crisis.

He also stressed that "the needs of the Yemeni people at all levels still exist," adding: "We are working to continue obtaining permits for humanitarian aid." He continued: “I am working to prepare for the formation of a joint economic committee to address the problems.”

Grundberg considered that “the current situation in the Middle East complicates reaching a solution to the Yemeni crisis,” adding: “We continue to work to achieve a breakthrough in the course of the crisis despite the escalation in the region.”

The UN envoy also said that “the Saudi role was very important and the role of neighboring countries is the greatest supporter” for resolving the crisis in Yemen.

He continued: “I visited Tehran repeatedly and stressed to them the need to support international efforts,” adding: “The Yemeni crisis should not be seen as marginal to the region,” and he also considered that “stability in the region will reflect positively on the Yemeni crisis.”