Jemen
The United Nations has condemned the recent actions of the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who forcibly removed U.N. equipment and vehicles from at least six unstaffed U.N. offices in Sanaa without explanation. This move, which included the confiscation of telecommunications gear vital to humanitarian operations, marks the latest in the Houthis’ increasing imposition of restrictions on international aid agencies.
Julien Harneis, the U.N.'s humanitarian coordinator for Yemen, highlighted that the actions were taken without any consultation or agreement, exacerbating the already dire conditions under Houthi control, which encompasses about 70% of Yemen’s humanitarian needs. The World Food Program plans to cease operations in these territories due to mounting limitations, affecting 365 staff jobs by the end of March. Over recent years, Houthi forces have also detained 73 U.N. staff members and others from different aid groups, often under unfounded accusations, impeding aid delivery and worsening the overall crisis.
The removal of essential U.N. assets and the blocking of humanitarian flights by the Houthis are likely to further hinder urgently needed humanitarian assistance in Houthi-controlled areas, worsening the humanitarian situation in those parts of Yemen.
The U.N. calls for the immediate return of its assets and the lifting of restrictions to ensure the continuation of humanitarian aid to the millions in need in Yemen.
