Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Government and I want to see an end to the conflict in Yemen. I regret to say that the situation has not progressed for some time. I understand, however, that the peace roadmap, as set out by the UN special envoy and his team, remains on the table. He continues to work to bring the parties together. I exhort all parties not only here but also at the table of the EU Foreign Affairs Council to encourage every opportunity to bring the parties together. As Deputy Wallace has said several times, the process has had some setbacks. The only solution to the conflict in Yemen remains a political one. For the sake of the civilian population who continue to suffer as long as this war rages, I hope the parties will soon agree to reopen negotiations. I urge those with influence in the region, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia can play a role in this regard, to use that influence to put an end to the conflict. It is a reflection of wider tensions in the region but the people who suffer are those directly involved, the people of Yemen whose humanitarian situation is dire and continues to deteriorate. There is a responsibility on the international community to exhort all parties to enter into negotiations with a view to finding a political solution to a very difficult and challenging conflict.

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