Sana’a — Armed Houthi militants raided the headquarters of the international aid organization Oxfam on Hadda Street in the Yemeni capital, Sana’a, on Thursday evening, in a dramatic escalation against humanitarian operations in the country.

According to local sources and rights monitors, the militants forcibly entered the premises, confiscated communications equipment and other organizational assets, and detained several Yemeni staff members. 

The raid is part of a broader crackdown targeting international NGOs operating in Houthi-controlled areas.

Witnesses reported that the armed group remained stationed inside the building for hours, restricting access and movement. 

The fate of the detained employees remains unclear, and Oxfam has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.

Humanitarian organizations and civil society groups have condemned the raid, warning that such actions jeopardize critical aid operations and violate international humanitarian law. 

The incident follows a pattern of increasing pressure on aid agencies, including previous raids on offices of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Islamic Relief Worldwide, Action Against Hunger, Human Appeal.

The United Nations and international donors have expressed concern over the deteriorating operational environment for humanitarian actors in Yemen, where millions depend on foreign aid amid ongoing conflict and economic collapse.

Oxfam has been active in Yemen for years, providing emergency relief, clean water, and livelihood support to vulnerable communities. 

The latest raid threatens to disrupt its life-saving work and further isolate civilians from essential services.

Rights advocates are calling for immediate international pressure on the Houthis to release detained staff, return confiscated assets, and respect the neutrality and safety of humanitarian organizations.