UN Chief Condemns Death of Yemeni Human Rights Staff Member in Houthi Custody, Demands Investigation
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the death of a Yemeni human rights staff member, Mohammad el Shami, while he was in the custody of Houthi authorities in Yemen. He has reportedly called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation into the incident and demanded the release of other UN employees who remain detained.
El Shami worked with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). According to the UN, he had been held by Houthi authorities since June 6, 2024. His detention continued for more than two years, and the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
Guterres expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered condolences to El Shami's family and colleagues. He also said that the United Nations was seeking answers from the Houthi authorities about the circumstances of his death.
UN Demands Independent Investigation
According to the UN statement, the Houthi authorities had not provided any information about El Shami's health or proof that he was alive since his detention, despite repeated requests from the United Nations. His family was reportedly informed about his death only recently, more than a month after it occurred.
The UN Secretary-General has called for an immediate, impartial, transparent and thorough investigation to find out how El Shami died. He also stressed that every person in custody must be treated humanely and that authorities are responsible for protecting their safety, health and basic human rights.
Concern Over Other Detained UN Workers
The UN also pointed out that this was the second death of a UN staff member in Houthi custody. The first involved a World Food Programme employee who died in detention in February 2025. The organisation reportedly said such incidents highlight the serious risks faced by UN employees and humanitarian workers in Yemen.
Guterres expressed serious concern about the safety of 70 current UN personnel, five former UN staff members and other humanitarian and civil society workers who remain detained. He again demanded their immediate and unconditional release, saying their continued detention was unacceptable and causing great suffering to them and their families.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of international aid and human rights workers in Yemen. The United Nations has reportedly urged Houthi authorities to provide clear answers about El Shami's death, ensure an independent investigation and release all remaining detained personnel.
