Yemen’s government has just released a statement that it has reached a truce with the Houthi tribes in Northwest Yemen.
This is very significant on a number of fronts as it helps de-commit significant military and economic resources Yemen is committing to deal with insurgency problems in the North while simultaneously dealing with growing al Qaeda related challenges in the South. This news will also decrease tensions with Saudi Arabia — and also neutralizes some concerns about Iran animating Houthi misbehavior in the region to put pressure on Saudi Arabia.
The six agreed conditions that both sides have agreed to are:
The six agreed-upon conditions include the opening of blockaded roads, demining of roadsides, withdrawal from civilian districts and avoiding interfering in the affairs of elected local authorities, returning looted civilian and military equipment, releasing Yemeni and Saudi detained civilians and military personnel, abiding by the Yemeni constitution, law and order, and refraining from any attacks on Saudi Arabian territory.
It’s good to see progress somewhere in the world. Now for some momentum perhaps?
The full Yemen Government press statement follows:
Embassy of Yemen Media Office — Press Statement
February 11, 2010
The government of the Republic of Yemen announced today an end to all its military and combat operations in the North-Western regions of Yemen. A National Committee, made up of members of the Yemeni Parliament and Al-Shura Council, is now in charge of overseeing and implementing the six conditions outlined by the government. The conditions have been accepted by the leader of the insurgency, AbdulMalik Al-Houthi, and the ceasefire will begin at midnight local Yemeni time. The Yemeni government hopes that the ceasefire will bring an end to the bloodshed, promote sustainable peace and bring reconstruction and development to the region.
The six agreed-upon conditions include the opening of blockaded roads, demining of roadsides, withdrawal from civilian districts and avoiding interfering in the affairs of elected local authorities, returning looted civilian and military equipment, releasing Yemeni and Saudi detained civilians and military personnel, abiding by the Yemeni constitution, law and order, and refraining from any attacks on Saudi Arabian territory.
The National Committee will be responsible for ensuring the return of those displaced by the conflict. The committee is made up of four sub-committees, each in charge of overseeing a specific region: the Al-Malahez District, Hurf Sufyan and the governorate of Al-Jawf, Saadah District, and the border area with Saudi Arabia. The sub-committees will work on strengthening the bond between communities as well as promoting security, solidarity and stability by renouncing violence and encouraging conflict reconciliation initiatives to prevent the occurrence of any future feuds or revenge attacks.
Mohammed Albasha
Spokesman, Embassy of the Republic of Yemen
Washington, D.C.
— Steve Clemons
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