HUDAYDAH, 12 May 2019 — The first day of the redeployment of Ansar Allah (Houthi) forces from the three ports of Hudaydah, Salif and Ras-Issa went in accordance with established plans. All three ports were monitored simultaneously by United Nations teams as the military forces left the ports and the Coast Guard took over responsibility for security. In the following days, activities are expected to focus on removal of military manifestations and demining. The formal verification by the United Nations of this first redeployment will take place at the three ports on Tuesday 14 May. 

The Chairman of the Redeployment Coordination Committee, Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard stresses that this initial step is to be seen as the first part of the agreed concept for phase 1 of the broader redeployments in Hudaydah, in accordance with the Stockholm Agreement. The Government of Yemen has expressed commitment to deliver their part of phase 1 when requested so by the United Nations. Consultations with the parties on commencement of these next steps are ongoing.