Houthi UN Staff Detentions Escalate as Female Aid Workers Held in Sanaa

Yemen’s Houthi rebels detained two more United Nations workers on Saturday. The Ansar Allah security forces took the female staff members from their homes in Sanaa. This continues a major crackdown against the world body’s operations.According to the Associated Press, both women worked for the World Food Programme. One of the detained women is in critical health. She recently suffered the loss of her newborn child.

Widespread Campaign Against International Bodies

The detentions are part of a severe and ongoing campaign. Houthi forces stormed the main UN compound in Sanaa just one week earlier. They have also raided the homes of other staff members in recent days.Over 55 UN personnel are now believed to be held by the group. The rebels have repeatedly seized assets and communications equipment. These actions are forcing the UN to completely reassess its mission in Yemen.

Humanitarian Operations Face Severe Disruption

The consequences for aid delivery are dire. The UN has already suspended its operations in northern Saada province. It has also relocated its top coordinator from Sanaa to Aden for safety.The Houthis accuse the detained staff of being spies. The United Nations fiercely denies all these allegations. This crisis threatens vital aid for millions of civilians in the war-torn nation.

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The ongoing Houthi UN staff detentions represent a severe breach of international humanitarian law. This crackdown cripples the aid lifeline for millions of vulnerable Yemenis and marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict.

Thought you’d like to know

Why are the Houthis detaining UN staff?

The Houthis have accused the detained UN workers of espionage. The United Nations has strongly and repeatedly denied these allegations. No public evidence has been provided to support the claims.

How many UN workers are currently detained?

At least 55 UN staff members are now held by the Houthis. This number includes both international and national personnel. Many other civil society workers are also detained.

What is the impact on humanitarian aid in Yemen?

The UN has suspended operations in northern Saada province. Aid distribution and other critical programs are being severely disrupted. This affects millions who rely on assistance.

Has the UN relocated any staff?

Yes, the UN has relocated its top humanitarian coordinator from Sanaa to Aden. Aden serves as the seat of Yemen’s internationally recognized government. This move was for security reasons.

What is the condition of the recently detained women?

One of the women is reported to be in critical condition. She experienced a premature birth and lost her newborn earlier this month. Her brother, also a UN worker, was briefly detained before.