UN envoy urges Yemeni parties to extend truce

(United Nations) – With the 72 hour Cessation of Hostilities in Yemen coming to an end, the United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen Ismail OuldCheikh Ahmed has urged all parties to agree to its extension for at least another renewable 72 hours.

He reminded all parties that the terms and conditions of the Cessation of Hostilities include an obligation to allow free and unhindered access for humanitarian supplies and personnel to all parts of Yemen, in addition to a full and comprehensive halt to military activities of any kind”, said the Special Envoy. “This must be respected at all times, in all areas,” he said.

“I expect all sides to strictly adhere to their commitments and work toward a definitive cessation of violence through a political process. In case parties agree to the extension, the Cessation of Hostilities must be fully respected. Our aim is that it will lead to a permanent and lasting end to the conflict,” he added.

“Yemenis deserve to live in peace and have access to their basic rights and all parties must assume their responsibility in protecting them,” he stressed.