On September 25, representatives from the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and the Republic of Yemen convened to address concerns over recent Houthi detentions in Yemen. The detentions involve United Nations staff, NGO workers, civil society members, former diplomatic mission personnel, and other individuals.
In a joint statement issued on September 27, these governments demanded the immediate release of all detained individuals. "These individuals must be released immediately," they stated. They also called for international efforts to negotiate the release of current detainees through diplomatic channels.
The statement emphasized that the Houthis must adhere to international norms and ensure the safety of all diplomatic and humanitarian personnel. "We cannot in good conscience put individuals at risk of unjustified detention or worse by continuing business as usual," it read.
The signatories expressed support for the United Nations' decision to reduce staff exposure to risks in Houthi-controlled areas. They welcomed the UN's suspension of non-essential activities in these regions and urged the international community to redirect aid elsewhere in Yemen. "We urge the Houthis to provide an adequate operating environment in which principled humanitarian assistance can be implemented," they said.
Highlighting their concern for Yemeni welfare and dignity, they stressed that delivering aid remains a global humanitarian priority requiring a secure environment for aid workers. The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of commitment to Yemen's unity and sovereignty: "We reaffirm our strong commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Yemen."
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