Al-Fassel | 2025-12-19

The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Yemen represents one of the direst emergencies in modern history.

Millions of Yemenis are on the brink of starvation as lifesaving aid is being deliberately obstructed by the Houthis, worsening their suffering and intensifying despair.

Their actions of detaining UN personnel and NGO workers reveal a ruthless strategy to control and weaponize aid distribution.

This approach further exacerbates the misery of Yemen's most vulnerable populations.

Blocking humanitarian aid: A ruthless strategy

According to the UN, the Houthis have detained 59 UN personnel, all of whom are Yemeni nationals.

These humanitarian workers have been subjected to fabricated charges, intolerable conditions and mistreatment.

For instance, 17 individuals were sentenced to death in late November, accused of spying for foreign governments despite evidence of their commitment to humanitarian causes.

The Houthis' use of "special criminal courts" to prosecute these workers flagrantly violates international law and signals their intent to deter aid delivery.

The result is immense disruption to critical humanitarian efforts aimed at combating starvation and disease.

Aid agencies face increasing roadblocks as the Houthis tighten their grip, ensuring that relief supplies intended for Yemen's most destitute communities remain withheld.

Instead of alleviating suffering, areas under Houthi control endure hunger, malnourishment and preventable deaths, a chilling example of starvation being used as a political tactic.

Reports of incommunicado detentions and severe mistreatment further highlight the rebels' disregard for human rights, adding layers of harm to an already monumental tragedy.

A manufactured famine and its enablers

The Houthis' actions have devastating consequences. Yemenis fleeing violence and living in poverty rely heavily on humanitarian aid to survive.

Yet, disruptions to aid operations caused by these detentions have left millions at risk.

Children, the elderly and the infirm are disproportionately affected, with malnutrition soaring to catastrophic levels.

Diseases thrive as health systems collapse, all while essential aid is deliberately obstructed.

Houthi supporters and enablers, such as Iran, also bear responsibility.

The sustained diplomatic, military and financial backing of the group underpins their ability to continue these atrocities.

By empowering the Houthis, these actors share accountability for the ongoing starvation and suffering in Yemen.

The Houthis bear full responsibility for Yemen’s devastating emergency, and Yemenis deserve access to food, medicine, and safety without fear or exploitation.