Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 20, 2025 International law
All 15 international UN staff members are now free to move around the UN compound in Sana'a, Yemen's capital, and maintain contact with UN agencies and their families. Five local staff members detained since October 18 within the same UN compound have been released.
Representatives of the UN country team in Yemen reported this on Monday.
"Ansar Allah security personnel have left the UN compound in Sana'a," the statement said.
In recent years, the Houthis have repeatedly infiltrated UN offices in Yemen, detaining staff and confiscating property. As of early October, the total number of detained UN personnel numbered in the dozens. Some have remained in custody since 2021. A number of UN staff members have been released.
Previously, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a statement expressing concern over public accusations made by the Houthis against UN personnel in Yemen. He categorically rejected all accusations, which, he said, "threaten the safety of UN personnel and humanitarian workers and undermine life-saving operations."
He reminded all parties to the conflict of their obligations to ensure the continued protection of humanitarian operations and personnel in accordance with international law.
"The Secretary-General reiterates his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN staff, non-governmental and civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions who continue to be arbitrarily detained by the de facto Houthi authorities," the statement issued by the UN chief's spokesman said.
Guterres also recalled that, in accordance with their obligations under international law, the Houthis must leave UN premises and return seized assets and equipment.
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