“These actions hamper the UN’s ability to operate in Yemen and provide critical assistance.”
Dozens of detainees
The Houthis, formally known as the Ansar Allah movement, have been fighting Yemen’s internationally recognized government for more than a decade.
The rebels control large parts of the country, including the capital Sanaa, and have been attacking aid workers.
In addition to UN staff, they host staff from international and national non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society and diplomatic missions, all of whom are Yemeni nationals.
Since the start of the war in Gaza, now in its third year, the Houthis have been attacking Israeli and other commercial ships in the Red Sea in what they say is a show of solidarity with the Palestinian people. They have also launched drone and missile attacks against Israel.
Release all detained personnel.
The Secretary-General renewed his urgent call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and other detained personnel, saying they must be respected and protected in accordance with international law.
He reiterated that UN personnel must be allowed to work without hindrance and that UN facilities and assets are inviolable and must be protected at all times.
“The United Nations will continue to work tirelessly, and through all available channels, to ensure the safe and immediate release of all arbitrarily detained personnel, as well as the return of UN agency offices and other assets,” Dujarric said.
“The Secretary-General remains steadfast in the UN’s commitment to supporting the people of Yemen and their aspirations for a just and lasting peace.”