The roles of regional actors in Yemen and opportunities for peace

The internationally backed Saudi Arabian military campaign against the Houthis began in March 2015. The 2014-15 takeover of Yemen by the Houthis, with growing Iranian support, has arguably significantly contributed to the current situation. Even though the active roles of these regional players are far from new to Yemen, increased involvement from these states, as well as Oman which is leading reconciliation and mediation efforts, necessitates a call for analysis. There is a need to more fully consider the new and emerging roles of the regional countries within the Yemen crisis, the reasons for their changing policies, and the impact they are having on the dynamics within Yemen.

This briefing also explores potential peacemaking opportunities and provides recommendations that could bring Yemen closer to a regionally backed political solution. Recommendations include:

• International actors should pressure parties to conflict to come to the negotiating table
• As neighbouring Oman is not involved in the military action, it must play a key role in future negotiations
• Negotiations must go on with the Houthis despite their refusal to comply with Resolution 2216; equally, the Houthis should adhere to their commitments under the Peace and National Partnership Agreement drafted in September 2014.

The roles of regional actors in Yemen and opportunities for peace is the first of a series of policy briefs issued by The Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies and in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

“The Saudi-led war on Yemen has had a dramatic effect on Yemen, leaving the country overcome by a storm of humanitarian,economic and societal repercussions.”

Sana'a Center, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Saferworld