View of Sanaa, Yemen. UN chief on death of WFP worker in Yemen custody Peace and Security
UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemns the death in custody of a World Food Programme (WFP) staff member in Yemen on 10 February, after he was arbitrarily detained by the Houthis on 23 January 2025.
“I offer my deepest condolences to his family and WFP colleagues, and express my solidarity with all detained colleagues and their families,” the UN chief’s press office said in a statement.
The circumstances of this terrible tragedy remain unclear, Guterres said, adding that the UN is urgently seeking information from the de facto authorities. He called for an immediate, transparent and comprehensive investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable.
Dozens of UN staff, local and international non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations and diplomatic missions remain in detention, some for several years, the Secretary-General recalled. “Their continued arbitrary detention is unacceptable. I reiterate my call for their immediate and unconditional release,” he added.
The United Nations continues to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of staff serving the people of Yemen.