UN Security Council Renews Condemnation of Houthi Detention of UN Staff
Yemen Monitor / New York / Exclusive:
The United Nations Security Council has renewed its condemnation of the Houthi Group continued detention of dozens of staff members working for the United Nations system, international and local non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions in Yemen, demanding their immediate, safe, and unconditional release.
In a statement issued by the Council members, they expressed deep concern over the plight of the detainees who have remained in custody since 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025.
The members highlighted concerns regarding the detainees’ physical and psychological well-being and their general conditions.
This renewed stance comes as the second anniversary approaches of the mass arrests carried out by the Houthis in June 2024, which targeted UN staff and humanitarian workers.
The Council affirmed that threats and violations against humanitarian workers are “completely unacceptable,” warning that the continued detentions are exacerbating Yemen’s deteriorating humanitarian crisis and hindering efforts to meet the growing needs of the population.
The members called for the immediate release of all detainees, including 73 UN staff members, commending ongoing diplomatic efforts by the United Nations through all available channels to secure their freedom.
The statement emphasized the importance of ensuring the security and safety of humanitarian and UN personnel, guaranteeing their freedom of movement, and protecting their offices and property to enable them to carry out their duties without hindrance.
The Council members also warned that continued political deadlock would deepen the humanitarian emergency in Yemen, noting that more than 22.3 million people remain in urgent need of aid and relief services.
