Since the UN raised the possibility of extending Yemen’s ceasefire late last week, the Houthis have spoken favorably twice on the idea. Now, the Saudi-backed government is said to be upbeat on an extension.
The two sides had a 2-month ceasefire starting in April, and going to June 2. It has been wildly successful, with no airstrikes, and increased aid shipping as the process went on. The hope is to expand shipping of aid and start a peace process.
The Houthis are keen for any extension to further ease aid shipments, but assuming that’s not an obstacle, the government suggests they could quickly make a deal to extend the process two more months.
No one seems to be opposing the ceasefire publicly, and while there are allegations of violations from smaller parties, violence is substantially down since April.
This is very surprising, but given the world situation, neither the Saudis or Yemenis want to rock their little regional boat anymore.
Lets hope this holds and some peaceful accommodation can be reached.