Fri Jan 24 20:09:33 IST 2025: ## UN Suspends Yemen Travel After Houthi Detentions of Staff and Aid Workers
**Sanaa, Yemen** – The United Nations has suspended all official travel to areas controlled by Yemen’s Houthi rebels following the detention of additional UN personnel. This follows the Houthi’s detention of individuals associated with the former US embassy in Sanaa and several aid groups.
The UN statement, released Friday, confirmed the detentions but did not specify the number of personnel held. The organization is actively engaging with Houthi representatives to secure their release. The move comes as the Houthis, despite de-escalating attacks on shipping and Israel following the Gaza ceasefire, have continued a campaign targeting UN staff and aid workers.
The Houthis have aired propaganda on their controlled television channels, showcasing individuals accused of working with Western intelligence agencies or Israel. This escalation follows US President Joe Biden’s reversal of a “terrorist” designation for the Houthis, only to have President Trump reinstate it this week.
The detentions exacerbate Yemen’s already dire humanitarian crisis. Over 18 million people require assistance and protection, and the ongoing conflict has claimed over 150,000 lives. The UN’s travel suspension highlights the growing risks faced by humanitarian workers and international organizations operating in Houthi-controlled territories. The Houthis have yet to publicly comment on the UN’s actions.
First Piper 