Global powers unite: Call for immediate release of detained humanitarian workers in Yemen

The U.S. Department of State, along with representatives from the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and the Republic of Yemen, issued a joint statement on September 25, addressing the troubling situation surrounding the unjustified detentions of United Nations personnel, non-governmental organization (NGO) staff, and other diplomatic representatives in Yemen.

The statement emphasises the urgent need for the immediate release of all detained individuals, highlighting that these personnel must be able to carry out their duties without fear of intimidation or detention.

The coalition urges all nations and organizations to leverage diplomatic channels to negotiate the safe release of current detainees.

“The Houthis must respect international norms and ensure the safety and security of all diplomatic, humanitarian, civil society, and United Nations personnel,” the statement reads.

It stresses that continuing operations as usual is untenable if it jeopardizes individuals’ safety.

In light of these detentions, the coalition supports the United Nations’ decision to minimize the exposure of its staff to risks in Houthi-controlled areas.

They welcome the UN’s choice to suspend all non-life-saving and non-life-sustaining activities in these regions, advocating for a redirection of humanitarian assistance to safer areas within Yemen.

The joint statement underlines the importance of delivering aid to the Yemeni people, reiterating that an adequate operational environment is essential for ensuring the safety of aid workers.

The coalition expressed deep concern for the welfare and dignity of the Yemeni population, stressing that the current actions of the Houthis severely inhibit humanitarian support.

Furthermore, the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, pledging to stand by the Yemeni people during these challenging times.