Yemen: UN staff freed after Houthi raid, but dozens remain arbitrarily detained

Five national staff detained during the same incident were also released.

The raid is part of multiple waves of detentions of UN personnel, some dating back to 2021. About 53 locally recruited staff remain arbitrarily detained at unknown locations, and their safety continues to be a major concern.

Armed elements from the Houthi de facto authorities entered the compound, reportedly at gunpoint, detaining staff in their rooms. While international staff can now move freely within the compound and remain in contact with families and agencies, concerns persist.

The raid came against the backdrop of continued false accusations against UN personnel and other foreign NGOs of espionage, including allegations made by the Houthi leadership on 16 October.

The Houthi movement and militia control large parts of Yemen – including the capital – where a fragile peace largely continues following years of conflict with the internationally recognised Government.

Dangerous and unacceptable

“Accusations such as these are dangerous and unacceptable,” Mr. Dujarric said in a statement on Friday, “categorically rejecting” all such accusations.

“They seriously jeopardise the safety of UN personnel and humanitarian workers and undermine life-saving operations. The Secretary-General stands in solidarity with UN staff in Yemen and around the world.”

He also reiterated calls for the “immediate and unconditional release” of all detained personnel from UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and diplomatic missions, and demanded the return of UN premises, assets, and equipment which have been seized.

“The Secretary-General salutes the unwavering humanitarian work of the United Nations and partners, which has saved the lives of hundreds of thousands in Yemen over the years.”

Regional engagement

Secretary-General António Guterres has engaged in diplomatic efforts with regional actors to help resolve the situation, holding discussions with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Oman and Iran.

“It is very important that when staff of the United Nations – who work on behalf of all 193 Member States – face situations like the ones we are facing in Yemen, that those Member States who can help, [do so]” Mr. Dujarric said on Monday at a regular news briefing in New York.

The ongoing detentions have serious implications for UN operations in Yemen, where over 1,000 staff support lifesaving humanitarian programmes.