UN Security Council Demands Release of 73 Detained UN Staff in Yemen
New York- The United Nations Security Council on Friday called for the immediate and unconditional release of 73 UN personnel detained by Yemen’s Houthi movement, marking nearly two years since a sweeping crackdown on humanitarian workers and civil society groups.
In a unanimous statement, the 15-member council condemned the continued detention of UN staff, aid workers and civil society representatives, warning that the arrests are worsening Yemen’s already severe humanitarian crisis.
Council members said all threats against humanitarian personnel were unacceptable and stressed that those delivering aid must be allowed to operate safely and without obstruction.
The Houthis began a major detention campaign in June 2024, arresting staff from UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and diplomatic missions in areas under their control. Additional arrests were reported in 2025, leaving dozens detained without charge and with limited access to legal representation or family contact.
The Security Council reiterated that all parties to the conflict must comply with international humanitarian law and ensure safe, unhindered humanitarian access.
The council also reaffirmed support for UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement to Yemen’s long-running conflict.
According to the UN, more than 22.3 million people in Yemen currently require humanitarian assistance.
