UN demands investigation after staffer’s death in Houthi custody in Yemen

A UN Human Rights staff member named Mohammad el Shami has passed away while in custody of the Houthi militia following an arbitrary detention that lasted over two years, according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Tuerk. Tuerk made this announcement on Saturday, urging for an independent inquiry into the incident and the release of other detained UN personnel.

His family only learned of his death after an extensive period of more than a month, and they have been left without any explanation regarding the cause or circumstances of his demise.

Tuerk emphasized the urgent need for a thorough and impartial investigation into the case, and he demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all other UN personnel held by the Houthi group. These individuals include seven colleagues from Tuerk's office, as well as humanitarian workers and members of civil society. The Yemeni Prime Minister responded to the tragic event, fully blaming the Houthi militia for the death and demanding accountability for those responsible.

He also pointed out that more than 70 UN employees and dozens of humanitarian workers are still detained by the Houthi group.

The Houthi militia claims that the detained individuals are part of a spy network working for the United States and Israel, without presenting any evidence to support their allegations. Additionally, the group has accused humanitarian organizations of concealing intelligence activities under the guise of their humanitarian work, also without providing any proof to substantiate their claims.

The conflict between the Houthi militia and the internationally recognized Yemeni government began in 2014 when the Houthi militia seized the capital Sanaa. This marked the start of a Saudi-led military intervention in 2015, aimed at supporting the Yemeni government. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a divided Yemen, with the Houthi militia controlling Sanaa and a significant portion of the north and northwest, while the government-aligned forces hold sway over the southern and eastern regions of the country.