Yemeni Houthi rebels have detained United Nations staff members.

In northern Yemen, Houthi militants have detained seven United Nations staff members. All personnel movement in areas controlled by the terrorists has been halted, and the Organization's leadership is demanding their release.

This is mentioned in a statement from the UN press service.

The UN stated that the arrests occurred in the vicinity of the capital, Sana'a. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned this action by the militants and is calling for the immediate release of those detained.

All official movements of UN personnel to areas held by the Houthis or within those areas have been suspended to ensure the safety of the staff.

“The United Nations will continue to work through all possible channels to secure the safe and immediate release of those who have been arbitrarily detained,” Guterres' statement reads.

He also added that “the ongoing attacks on UN personnel and its partners adversely affect our ability to provide assistance to millions of people in need in Yemen.”

Background. Earlier, Mind reported that the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, evacuated three Ukrainian sailors from the crew of the cargo ship Galaxy Leader, who had been held captive by Yemeni Houthis.