Yemen accord signals first step towards restarting LNG

A UN-brokered deal to bolster the ceasefire around the port of Hodeida improves chances of ending the four-year-old conflict

UN officials have secured an agreement from the internationally-recognised Yemeni government and Houthi rebels to reinforce their shaky ceasefire around the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, a vital entry point for food and humanitarian aid. The day when international oil companies (IOCs) return to Yemen in any numbers—and the Yemen LNG plant at Balhaf resumes production—is probably still distant. But IOCs waiting on the side-lines will be encouraged by recent developments, which suggest a small shift towards the warring parties agreeing to lay down arms. The accord includes a commitment to withdraw forces—although previous commitments have not been honoured. The UN Security Council extended the