Official reactions and statements from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as well as Arab and Islamic nations, have poured in, expressing their full support for the Saudi-led efforts to de-escalate the situation in Yemen, particularly the efforts aimed at strengthening stability in the eastern provinces and ending the years-long conflict. Statements issued by the foreign ministries of Arab capitals and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) unanimously affirmed that Saudi Arabia's initiatives represent a fundamental pillar for defusing the crisis and reaching a comprehensive political solution that guarantees Yemen's unity and sovereignty.
Context of the shift towards diplomacy and peace
These supportive stances come at a time when the Yemeni crisis is undergoing a fundamental shift in its approach. Over the past few months, Riyadh has spearheaded intensive diplomatic efforts, including rounds of direct and indirect negotiations, aimed at consolidating the humanitarian truce and expanding its scope to encompass economic and humanitarian measures that alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people. This approach stems from the Saudi initiative launched in 2021, which laid a solid foundation that paved the way for current UN and international efforts, thus moving beyond military operations to a phase of reconstruction and political dialogue.
The importance of stability in eastern Yemen and its regional impact
The focus on de-escalation in eastern Yemen is of paramount strategic and economic importance, not only for Yemen itself but for the entire region. Governorates like Al-Mahra and Hadramawt represent Yemen's strategic depth and a vital artery for its economy; their stability is crucial for securing international waterways and protecting Gulf and Arab national security. The success of the Saudi approach in these areas serves as a model that can be replicated in other parts of Yemen, contributing to creating a conducive environment for reconstruction and attracting the investments necessary to rescue Yemen's collapsing economy.
International and UN support for the Saudi vision
The support was not limited to the Arab and Islamic world; the Saudi vision aligned with the international efforts led by the UN envoy to Yemen. The international community views the Saudi role as a key factor in any future peace agreement. Observers emphasize that the Gulf and Arab consensus on this path sends a strong message to all Yemeni parties about the necessity of prioritizing national interests and engaging seriously in the peace process to end one of the world's worst humanitarian crises and begin a new phase characterized by development and partnership.
