Blinken kicks over continued detention of U.S embassy staff in Yemen

Admin l Wednesday, October 19, 2022

 

WASHINGTON – The United States of America has expressed worry over continued detention of  its embassy staff in Sana’a by  Houthi forces. In the last count, at least twelve current and former U.S and employees of the United Nations have been detained.

In a statement, Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken said one year ago today, Houthi forces breached the compound used by the U.S. Embassy in Sana’a, Yemen prior to its suspension of operations in 2015 and began detaining, without justification, Yemeni Locally Employed Staff.

“As of today, twelve current and former U.S. and UN employees remain detained. Most have had no contact with their families, and one passed away in detention earlier this year”, Blinken said, adding that the ongoing detention of these Yemeni employees shows gross disregard for diplomatic norms and constitutes an affront to the entire international community.

“The United States will unceasingly continue diplomatic efforts to secure their release, working with our international partners. These actions continue to call into question Houthi willingness to see Yemen return to peace”, he said.  Meanwhile, the UN Security Council has condemned Houthi actions in the strongest terms, as has the U.S. Congress and many international partners.

Blinken said the United States is committed to advancing a durable resolution to the Yemen conflict and to ensuring the safety of those who serve the U.S. government.

“I call on the Houthis to release these Yemeni citizens and return them to their families as a demonstration of their commitment to peace for the people of Yemen and willingness to participate in a future government that respects the rule of law”, Blinken said.