The UN Security Council has issued its strongest condemnation yet of the Houthis’ continued detention of humanitarian workers, UN personnel and civil society representatives in Yemen, warning that the escalating crackdown is worsening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
With the second anniversary of the mass arrests of June 2024 approaching, the 15‑member Council renewed its demand for the unconditional, safe and immediate release of all detainees including 73 UN staff members held across multiple waves of arrests over the past four years. Council members expressed “deep concern” for their welfare, stressing that threats against humanitarian workers are “unacceptable.”
The Houthis launched their largest sweep on May 31, 2024, raiding offices of UN agencies, international NGOs, local civil society groups and diplomatic missions in areas under their control. Further arrests followed in January and August 2025, leaving dozens imprisoned without charge, denied legal access and cut off from their families.
The Council reminded all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law to allow full, safe and unhindered access to detainees and to ensure the safety and freedom of movement of UN and associated personnel.
Members warned that Yemen’s humanitarian emergency with more than 22.3 million people now in need of assistance will continue to deteriorate without a political solution to the conflict.
Reaffirming support for UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, the Council urged renewed efforts toward an inclusive, Yemeni‑led political settlement that respects the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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