Statement by the Spokesperson on the situation in Yemen

A first unilateral withdrawal of Houthi forces from the three Red Sea ports was declared effective by the UN Mission for the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA). We have finally witnessed the first signs of tangible progress towards the implementation of the December 2018 Stockholm Agreement in Yemen, which is a crucial step to move the process forward towards inclusive political negotiations.

The European Union recalls the importance for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any acts which could contribute to a general escalation, such as the attacks claimed by the Houthis against Saudi oil installations which we firmly condemn.

The EU expects all parties to fulfil their respective commitments and engage with the UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths and the UNMHA in a constructive spirit, to achieve a comprehensive political agreement that remains the only option to put an end to this war and to set Yemen on the course to sustainable peace. The EU will continue to provide support to the UN Special Envoy and his team, in particular for the implementation of the Stockholm Agreement.