The UN reiterates its call for the immediate release of its staff held by Houthi militia.

UN Secretary-General Calls for Immediate Release of Detained Humanitarian Workers

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has renewed his call for the Houthi militia to release humanitarian and diplomatic workers currently held captive. This appeal comes as the situation in Yemen continues to deteriorate, impacting the lives of countless individuals.

Urgent Need for Action

In a recent statement, Guterres emphasized that the ongoing arbitrary detention of humanitarian workers represents a grave injustice. He stated, “The continued detention of our colleagues is a profound injustice against those who dedicate their lives to providing life-saving assistance and support to the Yemeni people.”

Impact on Humanitarian Efforts

Guterres highlighted that these detentions impose additional restrictions on the humanitarian community’s ability to operate effectively. He noted that such actions undermine mediation efforts aimed at securing a pathway to peace in the region.

A Call for Compassion

The Secretary-General urged the Houthi militia to release the detained workers immediately, especially in light of the upcoming Eid al-Adha holiday. He described this occasion as an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and alleviate the suffering of families who face another celebration without their loved ones.

Condemnation of Tragic Death

Guterres also condemned the tragic death of a World Food Programme employee during their detention earlier this year. He pointed out that the Houthi militia has yet to provide an explanation for this unfortunate incident. He called for an immediate, transparent, and comprehensive investigation, demanding accountability for those responsible.

International Solidarity Needed

The UN Secretary-General urged member states to continue expressing solidarity with the detained individuals and to intensify efforts advocating for their release. He welcomed the collective support from international partners, non-governmental organizations, and all those working to assist the Yemeni people in these critical efforts.

One Year of Arbitrary Detentions

This month marks one year since the arbitrary detention of dozens of UN staff and employees from national and international NGOs, as well as civil society organizations and diplomatic missions by the Houthi militia. The ongoing situation underscores the urgent need for action and support for those affected.

In conclusion, Guterres’s statements reflect a growing concern for the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and the need for immediate action to protect those who serve the community.

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