Houthi Rebels Detain Two UN Workers, Increasing Tensions in Yemen

On Saturday, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels intensified their crackdown on the United Nations in Yemen by detaining two female workers from the World Food Program (WFP). This incident has raised concerns about the safety of humanitarian operations in the war-torn country, as officials confirmed that the detainees’ whereabouts remain unknown.

The two women were taken from their homes in the capital, Sanaa, as part of a broader crackdown that has seen increasing hostility towards UN personnel. One of the women is reported to be in critical condition after suffering complications from a premature birth earlier this month. Tragically, her newborn did not survive. This woman is the sister of another WFP employee who was previously detained by the Houthis.

Escalating Tensions and Previous Detentions

According to UN officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the situation is alarming. The woman’s brother, who has kidney failure, was released due to his deteriorating health during his detention. These recent detentions come after the Houthis detained two other UN staff members and raided several homes on Thursday and Friday.

The Houthis have a history of targeting UN operations, having previously raided offices and seized assets, including critical communications equipment. In total, more than two dozen UN workers have been detained, with 12 international personnel only recently allowed to leave Yemen. Currently, at least 55 UN staff members remain in detention, alongside numerous non-governmental and civil society personnel.

This growing crackdown has forced the UN to reassess its operations within Yemen, leading to the suspension of activities in Saada province following the detention of eight staffers in January 2023. The organization has also relocated its top humanitarian coordinator from Sanaa to the coastal city of Aden, which serves as the seat of the internationally recognized government.

Allegations and Denials

The Houthi rebels have repeatedly alleged, without providing evidence, that the detained UN staffers and their colleagues from other international organizations and embassies are spies. The UN has vigorously denied these accusations, emphasizing the humanitarian nature of their work.

The ongoing detentions and the hostile environment for UN workers in Yemen present significant challenges for humanitarian efforts in a country already facing a dire crisis. As the situation evolves, the international community continues to monitor the impact of these actions on relief operations aimed at helping millions of people in need.