Dr Anwar Gargash calls out Houthis for undermining Yemen peace efforts

UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs says Houthi violations are threatening the Sweden peace deal

Dr Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, says Houthis must commit to UN peace deal. AFP

It is time for the international community to “call a spade a spade” when it comes to Houthi violations of the Yemen peace deal, Dr Anwar Gargash, the UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, said on Wednesday.

The Houthis have reportedly been violating the Sweden Agreement made in December, which declared a ceasefire in the strategically important port city of Hodeidah. International organisations are attempting to maintain the peace as clashes continue breaking out.

“In Yemen it’s time for the international community to call a spade a spade; the Houthi militia is undermining the Sweden agreement & further progress towards peace. Addressing this reality is essential for all to move forward,” Dr Gargash wrote on Twitter.

The UN has been involved in the peace process as have other international aid organisations looking to alleviate the suffering of 14 million Yemenis on the brink of famine.

“It is no longer tenable to accuse the Coalition of prolonging the war & obstructing the road to peace. Time for the international community, NGOs & press to take off the velvet gloves when addressing the Houthis obdurate behaviour,” he said.

Violence between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Houthis has threatened the peace deal and could lead to a resumption of the civil war that has driven the country to widespread famine and disease.

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