Saudi peace initiative applauded internationally but downplayed by Yemenis

Saudi Arabia announced a new peace initiative to end the 6-year-old war in Yemen at a time when there has been a military escalation and peace talks have stalemated.
Women wait next to belongings at a camp for the internally displaced about 10 kilometres on the outskirts of Yemen's northeastern city of Marib on March 28, 2021, as residents of the camp prepare to flee due to its proximity with battles between forces of the Houthi-rebels and the Saudi-backed government troops.
Women wait next to belongings at a camp for the internally displaced about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Yemen's northeastern city of Marib on March 28, 2021, as residents of the camp prepare to flee due to its proximity to battles between Houthi forces and Saudi-backed government troops. - AFP via Getty Images
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A correspondent in Yemen

The war in Yemen has entered its seventh year, and diplomatic efforts remain ineffective when it comes to opening the door to peace. All previous peace drives hit stalemates amid a continued surge in violence in this war-torn country. Still, diplomacy has not been abandoned and pleas for peace have been unceasing.

On March 22, Saudi Arabia presented a peace initiative to wind down the war in Yemen. The proposal laid out the need for a comprehensive cease-fire, reopening Houthi-controlled Sanaa International Airport, and allowing fuel ships to dock at Houthi-run Hodeida. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan pronounced the initiative in Riyadh, saying, "We want the guns to fall completely silent."

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