New York: UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed serious concern over the detention of UN personnel and others by the Houthis in Yemen, calling for their immediate and unconditional release. The detainees, including members of civil society, NGO staff, and diplomatic mission personnel, have been held for over two months.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Guterres condemned the recent forced entry by the Houthis into the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Sana’a. Although the office has now been returned to UN control, the Secretary-General stressed that those detained must have their human rights respected, including the right to contact their families and legal representatives.
Guterres also highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with over 18 million people suffering from food insecurity, displacement, and worsening economic conditions. He emphasised the UN’s commitment to addressing these challenges but underscored the importance of ensuring the safety of its personnel.
“The United Nations and its partners should never be targeted, arrested, or detained while carrying out their duties,” Guterres stated.
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