Joint statement on the proposed truce in Yemen by High Representative Mogherini and Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Stylianides
The Saudi authorities have proposed to implement a five-day humanitarian truce in Yemen, starting at 20.00 GMT on Tuesday 12 May. In reaction, HRVP Mogherini and Commissioner Stylianides issued the following statement:
"This is an important opportunity to tackle the dramatic humanitarian situation in Yemen, especially now that the country is running out of essential supplies and basic public services are at a breaking point.
All parties should rapidly abide by the truce without preconditions in order to ensure immediate and unhindered access of ordinary Yemenis in need to aid and essential supplies, including fuel, food and basic commodities. Equally, all parties have to ensure the safety and security of relief workers and facilitate the passage of convoys and ambulances to the most affected populations without discrimination.
The escalation of the conflict, in particular at the Yemeni-Saudi border and in the province of Saada, carries grave risks for the stability of the region. The fighting sides have to refrain from the direct targeting of civilian areas and to fully respect international humanitarian law.
The EU takes note of the announcement of a Conference of Yemeni parties in Riyadh on 17 May. We will continue to support all efforts, in particular those of UN Special Envoy to Yemen Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, for the resumption of inclusive political negotiations among the Yemeni parties. Yemen needs a sustainable settlement to the current crisis, based on a broad political consensus."
STATEMENT/15/4963
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