The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has called for supporting UN efforts to find a negotiable settlement to the conflict in Yemen, warning that military escalation undermines peace efforts in the war-torn nation.

Grundberg, after concluding a visit to Tehran, expressed his serious concern over the escalating military activities in Yemen, which are causing significant civilian casualties, including children, and are undermining peace efforts.

He underscored the urgent need for de-escalation in all of Yemen, including Marib. He further discussed the need to address the deteriorating humanitarian and economic situation in Yemen, and the importance of ensuring freedom of movement of people and goods into and throughout the country.

“A peaceful and stable Yemen will benefit the region. I intend to work with the countries in the region to help Yemen reach a peaceful end to the conflict,” Grundberg said.

Grundberg’s comments coincide with the arrival of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, to the Middle East.

Lenderking will meet with senior Yemeni and regional officials to discuss ways to stop the Houthi attacks on Marib and civilians.

“US Special Envoy for Yemen Tim Lenderking will return to the Middle East on November 4 for continued conversations with the Republic of Yemen Government, Yemeni civil society representatives, senior regional government officials, and other international partners,” a State Department media note said.

“The Special Envoy and his team remain focused on the need for the Houthis to stop their offensive on Marib and repeated attacks against civilian areas, which are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis,” it added.

“Special Envoy Lenderking will also continue to stress the US government’s commitment to working with the international community to press the parties to implement critical economic reforms, secure regular imports and distribution of fuel, and resume commercial flights to Sanaa airport,” concluded the statement.