Turmoil in Yemen: UN Staff Freed Amidst Heightened Tensions
Houthi rebels have released five Yemeni UN staff members and freed 15 internationals within the UN compound in Sanaa after detaining them. The UN has denied Houthi claims of espionage. Concurrently, the rebels held a funeral for their military leader, killed in an Israeli strike, escalating tensions further.
- Country:
- Yemen
In a significant development, Houthi rebels have released five Yemeni United Nations staff members and allowed 15 international personnel to move freely after detaining them at the UN compound in Sanaa. This incident marks the latest in a series of detentions as part of a long-standing crackdown against the UN in Yemen's rebel-held areas.
The rebels, supported by Iran, have claimed without evidence that the detained UN and various organization staff were spies, allegations firmly denied by the UN. The release comes against the backdrop of a funeral procession for the Houthis' military chief, killed in a recent Israeli airstrike, heightening the already strained relations.
Internationally, the US and Israel have intensified their efforts against Houthi forces following attacks on Israeli and Red Sea targets. The Houthis contend these actions as expressions of solidarity with Palestinians amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Their actions in the region have notably disrupted Red Sea shipping lanes, affecting global trade.
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