Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The UN Security Council has strongly condemned the Houthi detention of at least 21 United Nations employees since August 31, along with the forcible raid on World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF offices and the seizure of UN property — calling it a blatant violation of international law.
In a press statement, Council members stressed the need to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and assets and to preserve the inviolability of UN premises at all times. They reiterated their condemnation of the Houthis’ ongoing detention of UN staff, as well as employees of national and international NGOs, civil society organizations, and even diplomatic missions.
The Council voiced deep concern over the fate of the detainees, noting that some staff have remained in Houthi custody since 2021, 2023, and 2024, in addition to those recently detained.
It called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, emphasizing that threats to humanitarian workers are unacceptable.
Council members also warned that such actions risk worsening Yemen’s already dire humanitarian crisis, pointing to soaring levels of food insecurity. They underlined the urgent need to guarantee safe and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need.
The Security Council renewed its demand that the Houthis comply with international humanitarian law, provide a secure environment for aid workers, and ensure that the safety of UN staff remains a top priority. It also reaffirmed support for the United Nations in taking all necessary measures to protect its personnel.
