British Ambassador to Yemen Michael Aron described as “positive” the consultations between United Nations envoy to Yemen, Martin Griffiths, and the Iran-backed Houthi militias.
The consultations are based on the initiative Griffiths had presented to achieve a comprehensive settlement to end the conflict, which erupted five years ago when the Houthis staged a coup against the legitimate government.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, the ambassador said the talks between Griffiths and the Houthis are being held in “positive” circumstances.
He believed that the envoy was “optimistic”, adding that he was in contact with all parties. Aron said he was expecting “good news” to come from these efforts.
While waiting for this news, Aron called on the legitimate government, Houthis and Southern Transitional Council (STC) to show “greater responsibility” given the “very, very bad” conditions the country is enduring, hoping that they would move forward towards a comprehensive settlement.
He cited the ongoing fighting in Marib, Abyan and Hodeidah, saying it was unacceptable in wake of the dire humanitarian situation, the novel coronavirus outbreak and other crises.
On efforts to implement the Riyadh Agreement between the legitimate government and STC, the ambassador also described the circumstances as positive, but said he hoped the legitimacy would present some positive steps from its end.
He spoke of the need for “flexibility” from both parties, saying that Saudi Arabia has a good plan.
He stressed the need for the STC to end its declaration of self-rule, adding that he “understands” the issues that are being proposed in the interim capital Aden, but there is a need today for the legitimate government to return to the city.
The Riyadh Agreement must be implemented so that a new government can be appointed, he suggested, reiterating the need for flexibility from both parties for positive results to be reached on the ground.
