In a significant move prompted by ongoing threats to its staff, the United Nations announced on Monday a halt to all humanitarian activities in a Houthi-controlled region of northern Yemen. This decision came in light of the recent detention of eight U.N. personnel in late January, which raised the total number of staff members arrested since 2021 to 24, according to U.N. spokesman Farhan Haq.
U.N. Halts Humanitarian Operations in Yemen Following Houthi Staff Detentions
U.N. Halts Humanitarian Operations in Yemen Following Houthi Staff Detentions
The United Nations has ceased aid efforts in northern Yemen, citing the detention of its personnel by Houthi forces as the primary reason for its suspension.
Haq stated that this suspension was a direct response to the Houthis violating an agreement made in December to stop detaining U.N. workers and work towards the release of those already held. The Iran-backed Houthis have been accused of making unfounded allegations of espionage and foreign interference against the detained staff. The U.N. emphasized that this extraordinary measure reflects the need to ensure the safety of its personnel, while also maintaining its commitment to humanitarian assistance.
Subsequently, the U.N. announced a suspension of all travel to Houthi-controlled areas, impacting the delivery of vital services including food, medical supplies, and clean water. The Houthis, who have asserted control over significant portions of Yemen, including the capital Sana, have previously been implicated in a broader campaign targeting foreign aid workers and those associated with U.S. interests.
The U.N. has indicated that Yemen is facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with around 80 percent of its approximately 24.1 million population requiring assistance and over three million internally displaced. The halt in humanitarian operations poses serious risks to the lives of countless civilians who rely heavily on these essential services.
Subsequently, the U.N. announced a suspension of all travel to Houthi-controlled areas, impacting the delivery of vital services including food, medical supplies, and clean water. The Houthis, who have asserted control over significant portions of Yemen, including the capital Sana, have previously been implicated in a broader campaign targeting foreign aid workers and those associated with U.S. interests.
The U.N. has indicated that Yemen is facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with around 80 percent of its approximately 24.1 million population requiring assistance and over three million internally displaced. The halt in humanitarian operations poses serious risks to the lives of countless civilians who rely heavily on these essential services.
