The key facts

  • The UN condemned the November 5, 2026 broadcast of a video featuring a detained staff member, calling the statement 'evidently coerced'
  • UN demands: remove the video, stop publishing recordings made in custody, and release the detainees immediately and unconditionally
  • According to Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq, one detainee was released several weeks ago, and about 70 remain in captivity

Condemnation and UN demands

The UN condemned the Houthis for broadcasting a video on November 5, 2026, in which one of the organization's staff members makes what the organization assessed as an 'evidently coerced statement' while in the custody of the de facto Houthi authorities. The Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Farhan Haq said that a note of condemnation had been sent the day before. According to him, the video subjects a colleague to public humiliation, increases the risks to him, and causes suffering to his family. The UN demanded the immediate removal of the recording and an end to the publication of statements recorded while personnel are in custody, as well as ensuring the safety and humane treatment of all detainees and their release 'immediately and unconditionally.'

Pressure through the Security Council and the number of detainees

Haq called on UN member states to act together to put pressure on the Houthis and secure the release of all detained personnel, emphasizing that not only UN staff but also employees of other international organizations and NGOs are being held. 'We have made these appeals to the Security Council. We have appealed to countries with influence, and we will continue. Unfortunately, we have not received the desired results,' he said. He confirmed that one detainee was released several weeks ago, while approximately 70 people remain in captivity.