Sana'a – The European Union has strongly condemned the recent wave of arbitrary detentions carried out by Houthi authorities against United Nations personnel operating in Yemen, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained staff.

In a statement issued by the EU’s External Action Service, the bloc echoed concerns raised by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who confirmed that at least 11 UN employees were detained in Sana’a by Houthi forces on Sunday. The Houthis reportedly entered the premises of the World Food Programme (WFP), seized UN property, and attempted to access other UN facilities.

“These detentions are endangering the provision of urgently needed humanitarian and development assistance to the Yemeni people,” the EU statement read, adding that the targeting of UN, NGO, and diplomatic personnel undermines international efforts to support Yemen’s stability and recovery.

The United Nations has since suspended operations and staff movements in Houthi-controlled areas, citing security concerns following the escalation of arrests.

The EU reiterated its support for the UN’s mission in Yemen and urged all parties to respect the inviolability of humanitarian institutions and personnel. The incident marks a troubling escalation in the risks faced by aid workers in one of the world’s most protracted humanitarian crises.