The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price:
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg. The Secretary expressed deep concern with the uptick in civilian casualties in Yemen as well as the region and condemned attacks by all parties that lead to escalation in Yemen and extend the conflict. Secretary Blinken stressed the urgent need for de-escalation and for all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, including those obligations related to the protection of civilians. The Secretary communicated his support for the UN Special Envoy’s ongoing efforts to develop an inclusive political framework and reiterated that justice and accountability will be key to securing an enduring peace in Yemen. Secretary Blinken welcomed collaboration to advance a durable resolution that ends the conflict in Yemen, improves Yemeni lives, and creates the space for Yemenis to collectively determine their own future. He reiterated that resolving the conflict in Yemen remains a top U.S. foreign policy priority.