Dr. Khalid Al-Shafi
Positive dev-elopments have emerged in the GCC, like the end to the Decisive Storm campaign and launch of new operation called ‘Restoring Hope’ and the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution under Chapter VII. The resolution, presented by the GCC states, is considered a political and military victory as it sent a strong message to the Houthis, former Yemeni president Ali Abdullah Saleh and their chief backer Iran. The resolution also reflected the determination of the Gulf and the rest of the international community to reject the coup and support a legitimate government and the people of Yemen.
However, there are a number of challenges facing the GCC states post the Decisive Storm Operation, on top of which is inviting Yemen to join the Gulf Cooperation Council. This is an inevitable step the GCC states need to take without delay or hesitation or excuses. If Yemen joins the GCC, it will help the latter strengthen its geopolitical position in the region, avoid the consequences of the current crisis or possible future threats. The Yemeni crisis is a lesson for all to learn and benefit from.
All parties need to abide by the roadmap prepared by the Gulf countries (a legitimate initiative supported by UNSC) and the outcomes of the national dialogue which include holding the parliamentary and presidential elections and the approval of the constitution.
With the launch of the Restoring Hope operation, it is important for the Saudi-led coalition to implement an integrated rebuilding and rehabilitation programme in Yemen similar to the American Marshall Plan in Europe after the Second World War. It’s a programme that took Europe from devastation to hope and made it forget the pain of war and focus on all-round development.
Finally, there is a message to all parties inside and outside Yemen -- only a political solution is possible to the current crisis, a solution that is inclusive. The Yemenis will be the only winners in such an agreement and reconciliation which will restore security and stability.THE PENINSULA
