Was a UN staff member released in Yemen?
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Synopsis
A recent development in Yemen highlights the ongoing challenges faced by UN personnel, with one staff member released, but the total number of detained individuals remains high. The UN urges the immediate release of all personnel to ensure humanitarian efforts can continue amidst the ongoing crisis.
Key Takeaways
- UN staff member released in Yemen, reducing the total detained to 53.
- Ongoing arbitrary detentions criticized by UN Secretary-General.
- UN urges for the immediate release of all personnel.
- Safety of UN personnel remains a top concern.
- UN's commitment to support the people of Yemen persists.
United Nations, Oct 9 (NationPress) A UN staff member who was detained in Yemen earlier this week has been released, bringing the total number of detained UN personnel in the country to 53, according to Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
"I mentioned yesterday that another UN staff member was confirmed to be in custody. Our team in Yemen has informed us that this additional individual was released today," Dujarric stated during a press briefing on Wednesday (local time).
Some UN personnel have been held by the Houthis since 2021, and Dujarric called for their immediate and unconditional release, highlighting their role in assisting the most vulnerable populations in Yemen, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
On Tuesday, Guterres expressed strong disapproval of the ongoing arbitrary detentions of UN staff and partners, as well as the unlawful takeover of UN properties in areas controlled by the Houthis.
This condemnation was issued after nine more UN personnel were recently detained by the Houthi authorities.
With these new detentions, the number of arbitrarily held UN staff in Yemen since 2021 has risen to 53, Dujarric confirmed.
These actions severely restrict the United Nations' capacity to function in Yemen and provide vital assistance, with the Secretary-General expressing serious concerns for the safety and security of UN personnel in the region.
Guterres reiterated his urgent demand for the immediate and unconditional release of all personnel from the United Nations, NGOs, civil society, and diplomatic missions.
"They must be respected and safeguarded in line with applicable international law," he emphasized.
Moreover, Guterres underscored that UN personnel should be able to carry out their duties independently and without obstruction, noting that UN properties and assets are inviolable and must be secured at all times, in accordance with the UN Charter and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations.
"The United Nations will relentlessly pursue all available avenues to ensure the safe and swift release of all arbitrarily detained personnel, along with the return of UN agency offices and other properties," he stated.
"The Secretary-General remains unwavering in the UN's commitment to support the people of Yemen and their quest for a fair and lasting peace," the statement concluded.
Point of View
Our commitment is to uphold the interests of the nation while reporting on critical global issues. The plight of UN personnel in Yemen underscores the importance of humanitarian efforts and the need for international cooperation to address such crises.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many UN personnel are currently detained in Yemen?
As of now, there are 53 UN personnel detained in Yemen.
Who is the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General?
The spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General is Stephane Dujarric.
What has the UN Secretary-General called for?
The UN Secretary-General has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained personnel.
What are the Houthis' actions regarding UN personnel?
The Houthis have detained several UN staff members since 2021 and have been criticized for these actions.
