Human Rights Watch (HRW) has issued a stern rebuke against the Houthi authorities in Yemen following the detainment of at least 19 United Nations personnel. This worrying development occurred just days after an Israeli strike in Yemen’s capital, which resulted in the death of Houthi leader Ahmed al-Rahawi along with several other officials. The detentions mark a significant escalation in the longstanding conflict, further complicated by recent retaliatory measures against Israel, including a drone attack on an Israeli airport.

HRW has expressed grave concerns over the impact of these detentions on humanitarian efforts in Yemen. The rights organization emphasized that such actions not only pose severe risks to the detained UN staff and their families but also jeopardize the welfare of millions of Yemenis dependent on international aid. Yemen continues to face a dire humanitarian crisis, with the majority of its population lacking sufficient access to food and water.

The Houthis justify their crackdown by citing espionage accusations against UN workers, particularly following recent Israeli military actions in the region. This repression extends to all Yemenis in Houthi-controlled areas, further straining the already tense situation.

The number of UN staff detained by the Houthis has now grown to 65, according to Amnesty International. These individuals, including other civil society workers, are often held without specific charges and are denied access to legal representation or family contact. This situation was tragically highlighted by the death of a Yemeni worker from the World Food Programme, named Ahmed, who died under unclear circumstances while in Houthi custody earlier this year.

In response, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the Houthi actions, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained UN personnel. He also denounced the intrusion into WFP premises and other UN locations in Sana’a, signaling a violation of international norms.

Detaining UN personnel involved in humanitarian operations is not only a breach of international humanitarian law but also disrupts essential relief efforts. The International Committee of the Red Cross underscores that humanitarian workers are entitled to protection and respect, and warring parties must ensure civilian access to necessary humanitarian aid. Moreover, authorized personnel must have the freedom to move and function effectively to address the urgent needs of affected populations.

The international community continues to watch closely as the situation in Yemen unfolds, with hopes for a resolution that safeguards both the safety of humanitarian workers and the critical aid they provide to millions of Yemenis.