Amman, 31 August 2025 -I strongly condemn the new wave of arbitrary detentions of UN personnel today in Sana’a and Hudaydah by Ansar Allah, as well as the forced entry into UN premises and seizure of UN property. At least 11 UN personnel were detained. These arrests come in addition to 23 UN personnel currently in detention, some detained since 2021 and 2023, and one colleague who died in detention earlier this year.

Despite sustained engagement and assurances sought over the last year, the arbitrary detention of UN staff, NGO workers, and civil society has continued. These actions severely hinder broader efforts to deliver assistance and advance peace in Yemen.

The work of UN personnel is designed and conducted under the principles of neutrality, impartiality, independence and humanity. 

These arrests violate the fundamental obligation to respect and protect their safety, dignity, and ability to carry out their essential work in Yemen. 

I reiterate my demand  to Ansar Allah to release immediately and unconditionally all UN personnel, as well as staff from national and international NGOs, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions. 

I stand in solidarity with detained colleagues and their families. Their release will remain a priority for me and the rest of the UN family.