Peace agreement brings hope to Yemen

After years of brutal civil war Yemen has signed a peace agreement that could bring an end to the fighting Yemeni government forces have been battling Houthi rebels who took over the capital Sanaa in 2014 The conflict has caused a massive humanitarian crisis in the country.

The agreement was signed in the Swedish city of Stockholm Representatives from both sides attended the negotiations They agreed to a ceasefire in the port city of Hodeidah which is critical for aid access Clashes in Hodeidah have intensified in recent months worsening conditions for civilians.

Under the deal both sides will withdraw troops from Hodeidah UN monitors will oversee the redeployment to ensure compliance The city and its three ports will come under the control of an interim entity comprising local police and coast guard. This is aimed at easing humanitarian access for desperately needed supplies.  

While fighting continues elsewhere in Yemen, the ceasefire in Hodeidah has been hailed as an important first step If successful it could build confidence for further negotiations on a comprehensive peace settlement The war has killed over 10000 people and displaced millions from their homes since 2015.

Many Yemenis are cautiously optimistic but warn that the hard work is just beginning Both sides must fully implement the ceasefire agreement on the ground Outside powers like Saudi Arabia who support the government and Iran who backs the Houthis will also need to pressure them to stick to the deal.

If the agreement holds it could allow Yemen to begin recovering from its humanitarian crisis But years of conflict cannot be easily undone and many challenges remain Aid groups hope the deal will mean increased access to help the civilians suffering from famine and disease across the country Overall the agreement raises hopes that an end to the war may finally be in sight.