Sana’a — The Houthi-controlled judiciary has opened a second trial against 12 Yemeni nationals, including eight former employees of the U.S. Embassy in Sana’a, accusing them of collaborating with the CIA and engaging in espionage activities.

Legal sources in the capital confirmed that the defendants many of whom previously worked with United Nations agencies and international organizations were detained in recent months during raids targeting aid workers and diplomatic staff. 

The Houthis allege that the group provided intelligence to U.S. services, charges that could carry severe penalties.

This marks the second batch of humanitarian and diplomatic staff to face trial under Houthi authorities. 

Earlier this year, the Houthis prosecuted a first group of UN employees and local staff, drawing widespread condemnation from international organizations and human rights groups. 

That initial trial was denounced as politically motivated and a direct assault on humanitarian neutrality.

The United Nations has reiterated its concern, stressing that humanitarian work must remain protected from political conflict.

The U.S. State Department has previously demanded the release of its former embassy employees, calling their detention “unjust” and urging the Houthis to respect international law.