Yemen Monitor /newsroom:
The United Nations has affirmed its commitment to maintaining humanitarian operations in Yemen despite the recent death of a staff member while in Houthi detention. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of aid workers operating in the conflict-ridden country, but the UN insists its presence remains crucial to the millions in need.
Operations in the Houthi-controlled governorate of Saada were suspended temporarily after the de-facto authorities detained seven World Food Programme (WFP) employees on 23 January. One of them, identified as Ahmed, died in custody later under unknown circumstances.
UN official Julien Harneis talking to press conference “We are not suspending our operations in Yemen,”
He added “We paused in Saada because 10 per cent of our office staff was detained. Clearly, we don’t have the necessary operating environment there.”
This tragic event underscores the perilous environment faced by humanitarian organizations in Yemen. Aid workers regularly face challenges including security threats, and restrictions on access to populations in need.
for his part UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on X platform has called repeatedly for a full investigation into Ahmed’s death, including forensic analysis.
Despite these challenges, the UN and its partners continue to provide critical assistance to millions of Yemenis facing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. These programs include the distribution of food aid, the provision of clean water and sanitation, support for healthcare facilities, and protection services for vulnerable populations.
