Head of the Prisoners’ Team: The exchange agreement is a step towards emptying prisons, with Qattan’s case being crucial for implementation.

Government Negotiator Highlights Recent Prisoner Exchange Agreement

Significant Step Towards Resolving Detention Issues

Haadi Heij, the head of the government negotiating team for prisoners and detainees, announced that the recent prisoner exchange agreement with the Houthi militia marks a crucial step towards emptying prisons and closing the file on war-related detentions. Heij emphasized that the case of political detainee Mohammed Qahtan is integral to the implementation of this agreement.

Implementation Challenges and Requirements

In a recent interview with Saba TV, Heij explained that failing to facilitate a visit for Qahtan and submit a report on his condition could delay the execution of the exchange deal. He stressed that this visit is a fundamental part of the agreement signed by both parties.

Heij further elaborated that the agreement stipulates the formation of a special committee to visit Qahtan, assess his situation, and provide a report. This committee will include representatives from the government, the Houthis, Qahtan’s family, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The committee’s work will commence once the Houthis determine the date and route for the visit.

Phased Release of Detainees

The agreement outlines an initial release of approximately 1,700 detainees. Subsequent phases will involve visiting prisons, clarifying the fate of missing persons, and exchanging remains, ultimately aiming to resolve the entire issue of detainees.

Heij noted that the implementation process begins with gathering the released individuals at designated locations. The ICRC will then verify their identities before transporting them through airports in Aden, Al-Mokha, Marib, and another airport in Houthi-controlled areas to complete the exchange.

Negotiation Difficulties Acknowledged

Heij acknowledged that the negotiations faced challenges and disagreements over certain names. However, the government delegation approached the matter as a humanitarian issue, focusing on alleviating the suffering of families and reuniting them.

International Support Recognized

Heij expressed gratitude for the support provided by Saudi Arabia, Oman, Jordan, the ICRC, and the international community in facilitating the negotiations and reaching this agreement. He highlighted that the state leadership has consistently monitored the situation to alleviate the suffering of prisoners and detainees.

This agreement represents a significant milestone in addressing the humanitarian crisis stemming from the ongoing conflict.

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