Aden – The United Nations and the internationally recognized Yemeni government have launched emergency consultations to address the escalating humanitarian crisis triggered by the recent shutdown of international aid offices in Houthi-controlled Sana’a. 

The move follows a wave of detentions targeting UN and NGO staff, prompting the UN to suspend operations in northern Yemen.

The talks, held in Aden and Amman, aim to restore humanitarian access to millions of Yemenis after the Houthis forcibly closed several aid organization offices and detained at least eight UN employees in early November. 

These detentions are part of a broader pattern, with dozens of aid workers reportedly held incommunicado over recent months.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the detentions as “an alarming development” and called for the immediate release of all personnel. “This raises serious concerns about the Houthis’ commitment to a negotiated solution to the conflict,” he said.

Government officials in Aden have accused the Houthis of weaponizing humanitarian access and violating international law. “The closure of aid offices and arbitrary arrests are a direct assault on the Yemeni people’s right to life and dignity,” said a senior government spokesperson. “We are working with UN partners to ensure aid reaches those in need without political interference.”

The UN’s suspension of operations in northern Saada and parts of Sana’a has already impacted food distribution, medical aid, and protection services in some of the most vulnerable areas. 

Aid agencies warn that unless access is restored, famine-like conditions could worsen in several governorates.

The Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies noted that the aid sector now faces “stark choices” between halting operations or negotiating under duress. “This is not just a logistical crisis—it’s a moral and operational dilemma for humanitarian actors,” the center said in a recent analysis.

Diplomatic sources say the UN is exploring alternative delivery mechanisms and increased coordination with local civil society groups outside Houthi control. However, the risk to staff and the politicization of aid remain major obstacles.

As the talks continue, humanitarian advocates are urging the international community to pressure the Houthis to respect humanitarian norms and allow the resumption of life-saving operations. 

The outcome of these negotiations could determine the fate of millions in a country already grappling with war, displacement, and economic collapse.