UN Rebukes Houthi Actions Against Detained Staff in Yemen

The United Nations condemns the Houthis in Yemen for referring detained U.N. staff to a criminal court, violating international laws. Despite being in power since 2014, the Houthis have unjustly detained 59 Yemeni U.N. personnel. The U.N. calls for their immediate release and emphasizes its continued humanitarian commitment.

The United Nations has voiced strong condemnation against the actions of Yemen's Houthis, who have referred dozens of detained U.N. staff members to a special criminal court. This decision has been denounced as a breach of international law, according to a statement from U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Tuesday.

The Houthis have held 59 Yemeni U.N. personnel incommunicado, denying them due process. These actions are in direct violation of the immunities and legal protections afforded to U.N. staff. The Houthis, who have been controlling much of Yemen since 2014, continue these detentions despite widespread criticism.

The United Nations firmly rejects the accusations from the Houthis that U.N. operations in Yemen involve espionage, renewing calls for the immediate release of all U.N. personnel. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to support Yemen through principled humanitarian assistance, urging the de facto authorities to comply with international standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)