United Nations: Detention of Our Staff Hinders Aid Delivery to Houthi-Controlled Areas
Yemen Monitor/Newsroom:
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres warned of the serious repercussions of the de facto Houthi authorities detaining ten additional UN staff members, bringing the total number of detained organization personnel to 69 individuals.
A statement attributed to his spokesperson stated that these detentions make it difficult, if not impossible, to continue delivering United Nations humanitarian aid in areas under Houthi control. This exacerbates the suffering of millions of Yemenis and restricts their access to essential humanitarian support.
The Secretary-General called for the immediate and unconditional release of all arbitrarily detained UN staff, non-governmental organization personnel, civil society members, and diplomatic missions. He demanded the cancellation of any legal measures against the organization’s employees.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and respecting the privileges and immunities granted to the United Nations and its staff. He stressed that these form the cornerstone for enabling humanitarian work and protecting those engaged in it.
The Secretary-General affirmed that the United Nations will continue its diplomatic and political efforts with member states and the Security Council, in addition to direct communication with the Houthis, to ensure the release of all detainees. He expressed solidarity with their families and all those affected by these measures in Yemen.
