Sanaa: The United Nations has raised serious concerns over the recent seizure of crucial telecommunications equipment and vehicles by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement, warning that the move could severely disrupt the delivery of humanitarian aid in the war-torn country. The U.N. described the action as a major impediment to its ongoing relief operations, which already face significant challenges due to the prolonged conflict.
In a statement, Julien Harneis, the U.N. Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, said that Houthi forces had entered at least six unmanned U.N. facilities in Sanaa and removed vital communication gear and vehicles. This equipment is essential for coordinating aid programs, maintaining contact with staff in the field, and monitoring humanitarian needs across Yemen. Harneis emphasized that the seizure undermines the “minimum infrastructure” the U.N. relies on to operate safely and effectively.
Yemen has been mired in conflict for over a decade, with fighting between the Houthi rebels controlling northern regions, including the capital, and the internationally recognized government based in Aden. The conflict has displaced millions and created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The U.N. estimates that around 21 million Yemenis roughly two-thirds of the population need humanitarian assistance, including food, healthcare, and clean water.
The seizure of equipment is part of a broader pattern of restrictions imposed by the Houthi authorities on U.N. operations. Harneis noted that U.N. flights into Sanaa and Marib have been suspended for months, limiting the ability of humanitarian agencies to reach vulnerable populations. At the same time, the safety of U.N. staff has deteriorated sharply, with over 70 personnel detained by Houthi authorities since 2021, prompting the relocation of the U.N.’s main Yemen office to Aden late last year.
The U.N. also expressed concern over the long-term implications of the seizure. Without functioning communication networks and transport, aid organizations may be unable to deliver critical food, water, and medical supplies to the areas most in need. Experts warn that this could escalate an already dire situation, leaving millions at risk of malnutrition, disease, and extreme deprivation.
Houthi officials have not responded to requests for comment regarding the seizures. Previously, the group has accused U.N. agencies of acting on behalf of foreign interests, claims that U.N. officials have consistently denied. Humanitarian experts say that such tensions not only hinder relief efforts but also exacerbate the suffering of ordinary Yemenis caught in the crossfire of political and military disputes.
The U.N.’s warning comes amid a broader backdrop of mounting humanitarian challenges in Yemen. As agencies face harassment, restricted access, and security threats, the risk of a worsening humanitarian catastrophe grows. Observers caution that without cooperation from all parties, the already fragile relief system may struggle to prevent further deterioration of the lives of millions of Yemenis.