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UN Crisis Deepens: Houthis Detain 10 More Staff Amid Aid Catastrophe

The United Nations is facing a major crisis in Yemen. Houthi forces have just detained 10 more UN staff members, bringing the shocking total to 69 people. This move is crippling the delivery of essential aid to millions who desperately need it. The UN chief is demanding their immediate release and warning that these actions violate international law.

Key Points: UN Condemns Houthi Detention of 10 More Staff, Total Hits 69

  • UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the arbitrary detentions by the Houthi group
  • The new detentions bring the total number of seized UN personnel to a staggering 69 individuals
  • The actions directly restrict life-saving aid for millions of vulnerable people in Yemen
  • The UN demands immediate release and respect for international law and staff immunities
1 min read

UN condemns arbitrary detention of additional staff by Houthis

UN chief Guterres condemns new Houthi detentions of 10 staff, bringing total to 69, warning it cripples vital aid for millions in Yemen.

"These detentions have rendered the delivery of United Nations humanitarian assistance... unsustainable. - Stephane Dujarric, UN Spokesperson"

New York, December 20

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the arbitrary detention carried out by the Houthi group on 18th December against 10 additional United Nations staff members, bringing the total number of detained UN personnel to 69.

In a statement, Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, said these detentions have rendered the delivery of United Nations humanitarian assistance in areas under Houthi control unsustainable. He noted that this directly affects millions of people in need and restricts their access to life-saving aid.

He added that the Secretary-General called for the immediate and unconditional release of all arbitrarily detained personnel from the United Nations, non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations and diplomatic missions.

He also urged the Houthis to revoke the referral of UN staff for prosecution and stressed the need to respect international law, including the privileges and immunities of the United Nations and its staff, which are essential to enabling humanitarian work in a safe and principled environment. (ANI/WAM)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's heartbreaking to read this. As someone who has seen the work of aid workers in conflict zones, this sets a dangerous precedent. The international community needs to apply more pressure. Thoughts with the detained staff and their families. 🙏
A
Arjun K
Strong condemnation is good, but where is the action? The UN needs to show some teeth. This directly impacts aid delivery. We in India understand the value of humanitarian work, especially after natural disasters. This cannot be tolerated.
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Priyanka N
While I fully support the UN's stance, I have to ask respectfully: is there a possibility that some diplomatic channels or quieter negotiations could have been exhausted more before this public condemnation? Sometimes a strong public statement can harden positions. Just a thought.
V
Vikram M
This is a clear violation of international law. The privileges and immunities of UN staff are not a favour, they are a necessity for their safety and work. The common people who depend on aid are the real victims here. Shameful act.
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Karthik V
69 personnel detained! That's a huge number. It shows a complete disregard for humanitarian principles. The world's focus might be elsewhere, but we cannot forget the civilians caught in the middle. Hope for a swift resolution.

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