Saudi Arabia welcomes the Muscat agreement for the exchange of prisoners in Yemen

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its strong welcome for the agreement reached by the Yemeni parties in the Omani capital, Muscat, which stipulates the exchange of prisoners and detainees, in an important humanitarian and political step that reflects the desire to end human suffering and pave the way towards sustainable political solutions to the Yemeni crisis.

The importance of the agreement in the humanitarian and political context

This agreement, the culmination of arduous negotiations, represents a glimmer of hope for thousands of Yemeni families awaiting the return of their loved ones. Political and international circles view the issue of prisoners and detainees as one of the most complex and sensitive aspects of the Yemeni crisis, and progress on this issue is considered essential for building trust between the warring parties. The success of this agreement will not only have a humanitarian impact but will also serve as a cornerstone for supporting efforts to solidify the ceasefire and advance the comprehensive peace process in Yemen.

Omani and UN role in mediation

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commended the significant efforts exerted by the sisterly Sultanate of Oman in hosting and sponsoring these negotiations, emphasizing Muscat's pivotal role as an impartial and trusted mediator in the region. The Kingdom also praised the efforts of the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations to Yemen and the International Committee of the Red Cross in facilitating dialogue and bridging the gaps between the Yemeni parties, which contributed to reaching this important agreement.

Historical background and context of the crisis

Yemen has been living for years under a conflict that has led to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, according to the United Nations. Over the past years, there have been several attempts and agreements to exchange prisoners, most notably the Stockholm Agreement of 2018, and the exchanges that took place in 2020 and 2023. The current Muscat Agreement reinforces these efforts, emphasizing that dialogue is the only way to resolve differences.

The Kingdom's firm stance on the Yemeni crisis

By welcoming this agreement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its unwavering support for all efforts aimed at finding a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis. Riyadh emphasized its continued support for the legitimate government and the brotherly Yemeni people, and its commitment to the security and stability of Yemen and the region. It stressed the necessity for all parties to adhere to the agreement's provisions and build upon them to achieve a lasting peace that ends the suffering of the Yemeni people and fulfills their aspirations for development and prosperity.