Houthi Rebels Detain UN Staff in Sanaa Compound Raid

Houthi rebels stormed a United Nations compound in Yemen’s capital, Sanaa. The incident occurred on Saturday. Armed members of the group entered the facility and detained staff members.

This is the latest attack in a series of actions against international aid groups. The rebels accuse the UN of espionage and political bias. According to Reuters, the UN confirmed all staff are safe and accounted for.

UN Condemns Attack and Rejects Accusations

A spokesperson for the UN Resident Coordinator confirmed the breach. Jean Alam stated that 15 international staff members were in the compound. The UN is now in contact with authorities to ensure personnel safety.

The Houthi action coincides with a separate maritime incident. A tanker caught fire in the Gulf of Aden after being hit by a projectile. The rebel group has not yet claimed responsibility for that attack.

Wider Crackdown on Humanitarian Operations

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had previously expressed grave concern. He categorically rejected public accusations made by the Houthis against UN staff. A statement from his office said such accusations jeopardize safety and undermine life-saving operations.

This crackdown severely impacts humanitarian work in Yemen. Millions of people in the country rely on international aid. These actions threaten the delivery of critical food and medical supplies.

The storming of the UN compound in Sanaa marks a significant escalation in tensions. This direct confrontation with the United Nations threatens to deepen Yemen’s humanitarian crisis. The international community is watching the Yemen situation closely.

Thought you’d like to know

What triggered the Houthi attack on the UN compound?

The Houthi rebels accuse the United Nations of spying for the US and Israel. They also claim the UN displays political bias and has failed to condemn Israel’s military actions.

Were any UN staff members harmed during the incident?

According to a UN spokesperson, all staff are safe and accounted for. Their families have been contacted to confirm their wellbeing.

How many people were inside the compound during the storming?

The compound was accommodating 15 UN international staff members at the time. The rebels entered the premises and detained these personnel.

What has been the UN’s official response to this event?

The UN Secretary-General has categorically rejected all Houthi accusations. The world body is taking measures to ensure staff safety and security.

How does this event affect humanitarian work in Yemen?

This attack seriously undermines life-saving operations. It jeopardizes the delivery of essential aid to millions of Yemenis in need.