UN Security Council Demands Release of 73 Detained UN Staff as Houthi Captivity Enters Third Year

UN Security Council Calls for Immediate Release of 73 UN Staff Detained by Houthis

The United Nations Security Council has strongly condemned the continued detention of humanitarian workers, UN personnel and civil society representatives by Yemen’s Houthi Movement, renewing calls for their immediate and unconditional release as the second anniversary of a major crackdown approaches.

In a statement issued on Friday, the 15-member council expressed deep concern over the fate of dozens of detainees, including 73 UN staff members who have been arrested during multiple waves of detentions over the past four years. The council demanded their safe and immediate release and stressed that humanitarian workers must be allowed to carry out their duties without fear of intimidation or arrest.

Concerns Over Humanitarian Crisis

The Security Council warned that the detentions are exacerbating an already severe humanitarian emergency in Yemen, where millions of people depend on aid and essential services.

Council members said threats against humanitarian personnel undermine relief operations and make it more difficult to reach vulnerable communities. According to the UN, more than 22 million people across Yemen currently require some form of humanitarian assistance.

Crackdown Continues

The largest wave of arrests began in May 2024, when Houthi authorities carried out raids on offices belonging to UN agencies, non-governmental organisations, civil society groups and diplomatic missions in territories under their control.

Additional detentions were reported in January and August 2025, bringing the total number of people held to dozens. Human rights groups and UN officials have repeatedly raised concerns that many detainees remain imprisoned without formal charges, legal representation or regular contact with their families.

Council Reaffirms International Obligations

The Security Council reiterated that all parties involved in armed conflicts are obligated under international humanitarian law to ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access and to protect aid workers and UN personnel.

Members also stressed the importance of guaranteeing the safety, security and freedom of movement of humanitarian staff operating in conflict zones.

Push for Political Solution

Beyond the immediate issue of detainees, the council warned that Yemen’s humanitarian conditions are likely to deteriorate further without a lasting political settlement to the country’s prolonged conflict.

The members reaffirmed their support for Yemen’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, while backing ongoing mediation efforts led by Hans Grundberg.

The council expressed continued support for Grundberg’s efforts to facilitate an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process aimed at ending the conflict and creating conditions for long-term stability in the country.

As calls for the detainees’ release grow louder, the Security Council signalled that the issue remains a priority for the international community amid broader efforts to address Yemen’s humanitarian and political challenges.