Hudaydah Agreement

The Hudaydah Agreement: What it Is and Why it Matters

On December 13, 2018, a historic agreement was signed in the Swedish city of Stockholm between the Yemeni government and the Houthi rebels. This agreement, known as the Hudaydah Agreement, aimed to end the fighting and establish a ceasefire in the port city of Hudaydah, which had been a major battleground in the Yemeni civil war.

The Hudaydah Agreement has several key provisions, including the withdrawal of all military forces from the city and the establishment of a joint Redeployment Coordination Committee (RCC) to oversee the implementation of the agreement. The RCC is comprised of representatives from both sides and is responsible for monitoring the ceasefire and ensuring that both parties adhere to the terms of the agreement.

The agreement is seen as a significant step towards ending the conflict in Yemen, which has been ongoing since 2015. The civil war has had a devastating impact on the country, with thousands of civilians killed and millions displaced. The conflict has also led to a humanitarian crisis, with many Yemenis facing severe food shortages and a lack of access to healthcare.

The port city of Hudaydah is a critical gateway for humanitarian aid to enter Yemen, as it is the main entry point for food and other essential supplies. The conflict had disrupted aid deliveries, leading to fears of a famine in the country. The Hudaydah Agreement is expected to improve access to aid and alleviate the suffering of Yemenis.

The implementation of the agreement, however, has faced several challenges. The withdrawal of forces from the city has been slow, with both sides accusing the other of violating the ceasefire. The United Nations has been working to mediate the situation and has called for both parties to adhere to the terms of the agreement.

The Hudaydah Agreement is a critical milestone in the efforts to end the conflict in Yemen and provide relief to the millions of Yemenis affected by the war. Its successful implementation will require continued cooperation and commitment from both sides, as well as support from the international community. As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important not to forget the ongoing crisis in Yemen and to work towards a sustainable peace in the country.