The United Nations has firmly rejected the accusations made by Yemen’s Houthi group, alleging that UN personnel or operations in the country are involved in espionage or activities inconsistent with the organization’s humanitarian mandate.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said in a press briefing on Thursday that the organization is “deeply concerned and disturbed” by the baseless and malicious allegations, including the Houthis’ characterization of UN staff as “spies and terrorists.”
“These accusations endanger the lives of UN personnel everywhere,” Dujarric warned, calling them “unacceptable.” He reaffirmed that the UN continues to demand the immediate release of 53 staff members who remain arbitrarily detained by the Houthis, along with personnel from non-governmental organizations and diplomatic missions, some of whom have been held for years without contact or due process.
Dujarric reiterated that the United Nations’ sole mission in Yemen is humanitarian and peace-oriented, emphasizing that such accusations only hinder the organization’s ability to deliver life-saving aid and protect civilians affected by the conflict.
