Why is Guterres Condemning the Detention of UN Personnel in Yemen?
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Synopsis
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns the recent detainment of UN personnel in Yemen, stressing the importance of their safety and the inviolability of UN operations. This statement raises critical questions about the ongoing tensions in the region and the impact on humanitarian efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Immediate Release: Guterres demands the immediate release of all detained UN personnel.
- Safety First: The safety of UN staff must be prioritized in conflict zones.
- Ongoing Support: The UN continues to support Yemen in its pursuit of peace.
- International Concerns: The detentions raise significant international humanitarian concerns.
- Escalating Tensions: Current events highlight the increasing tensions in the region.
United Nations, Sep 1 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed strong condemnation regarding the arbitrary detainment of at least 11 UN personnel by the Houthi de facto authorities in regions they control in Yemen.
In a statement released on Sunday, the UN chief further condemned the forced intrusion into the World Food Programme's premises, the appropriation of UN property, and attempts to access additional UN locations in Sanaa, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Guterres reiterated his demand for the immediate and unconditional release of those detained, including all other personnel from the United Nations, international and national non-governmental organizations, civil society, and diplomatic missions who have faced arbitrary detainment since June 2024, along with those detained since 2021 and 2023.
He stated, "The ongoing arbitrary detention of all such individuals is unacceptable."
He stressed that personnel from the United Nations and its partners should never be targeted, arrested, or detained while performing their duties, emphasizing that the safety and security of UN personnel and property, along with the inviolability of UN premises, must be protected at all times.
"The United Nations will persist in its efforts to secure the safe and immediate release of all arbitrarily detained individuals. The UN and its partners will continue to support the people of Yemen in their quest for a just and enduring peace," Guterres affirmed.
At least 11 UN staff members were detained on Sunday in Sanaa and Hodeidah, raising the total number of detained UN personnel in northern Yemen to 34, as stated by UN Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg.
The Houthis reported that Ahmed al-Rahawi, the prime minister of the Houthi-backed government, and several other ministers were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Sanaa during a government workshop. The group pledged retaliation, with Mahdi al-Mashat, the head of the Supreme Political Council—the top governing body of the Houthis—warning in a speech on Houthi-run al-Masirah TV that "Israel should prepare for dark days."
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the significant humanitarian implications of the ongoing detentions in Yemen. The safety and security of UN personnel are paramount, and their ability to operate freely is essential for the aid and support they provide to the Yemeni people. Maintaining dialogue and fostering peace should remain a priority for all parties involved.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What has Guterres condemned?
Guterres condemned the arbitrary detention of at least 11 UN personnel by Houthi authorities in Yemen.
How many UN personnel are currently detained?
Currently, 34 UN personnel are reported to be detained in northern Yemen.
What actions did the Houthis take recently?
The Houthis claimed that their prime minister and several ministers were killed in Israeli airstrikes and vowed to retaliate.
What does Guterres demand?
He demands the immediate and unconditional release of all detained personnel.
What is the UN's stance on personnel safety?
The UN emphasizes that its personnel should never be targeted while performing their duties.
