The United Nations condemns the death of a UN employee during arbitrary detention by the Houthis and demands an investigation.

UN Secretary-General Condemns Death of UN Employee in Houthi Custody

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, expressed his deep shock and condemnation regarding the death of UN employee Mohammed Al-Shami, who worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Al-Shami died while in custody of Houthi militia.

Circumstances Surrounding the Incident Remain Unclear

UN spokesperson Stefan Dujarric stated that the circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. He emphasized that the Houthi militia has not provided any information about Al-Shami’s health status or evidence confirming that he was alive since his arrest. This lack of communication persists despite repeated requests from the United Nations. Dujarric noted that the organization urgently seeks answers regarding the conditions of Al-Shami’s death.

Arbitrary Detention and Previous Incidents

Dujarric clarified that Al-Shami had been arbitrarily detained since June 6, 2024. He pointed out that this marks the second time a UN employee has died while in Houthi custody, following the death of an employee from the World Food Programme in February 2025.

Responsibility for Detainees’ Safety

The Secretary-General affirmed that the Houthi militia bears full responsibility for the protection and safety of detainees, as well as for providing necessary medical care. He stressed that all individuals deprived of their freedom must be treated humanely and with full respect for their dignity and rights.

Urgent Call for Release of Detained Personnel

Guterres also expressed grave concern over the continued detention of dozens of UN employees, humanitarian workers, and civil society organizations. He reiterated his call for their immediate and unconditional release.

Demand for an Independent Investigation

The UN Secretary-General called for an immediate, neutral, transparent, and comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the death of UN employee Mohammed Al-Shami and to determine accountability.

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