United Nations Yemen Observation Mission (UNYOM): The Dutch contribution
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the UN that the Netherlands was prepared to provide 2 military officers for UNYOM. The 2 officers arrived in the capital Sana’a on 27 November 1963. They were joined by 2 of their compatriots in February and April 1964. The Netherlands therefore contributed 4 service members to UNYOM.
Tasks of the observers
The observers manned the permanent and temporary observation posts, from which they could monitor compliance with the agreement between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. They were allowed to operate outside the demilitarised zone to investigate possible Saudi support for the royalists.
In addition, the observers monitored Egyptian troop movements and maintained close contacts with the Egyptian commanders in the area. As and when necessary, the Dutch observers participated in aerial reconnaissance missions and carried out patrols on the ground. The last Dutch serviceman returned on 12 September 1964.