SANA'A — Germany’s Ambassador to Yemen, Steffen Rietzlaff, has strongly condemned the recent raids carried out by Houthi militants on offices belonging to United Nations agencies and international humanitarian organizations in the capital, Sanaa. 

The ambassador described the actions as “unacceptable,” calling for the immediate release of detained staff and respect for humanitarian principles.

In a statement issued following the incident, Rietzlaff expressed deep concern over the armed storming of multiple aid facilities and the reported detention of several employees. He emphasized that such violations undermine the ability of humanitarian actors to deliver life-saving assistance to millions of Yemenis in need.

“These actions are not only a breach of international law, but they also jeopardize the trust and neutrality that humanitarian organizations rely on to operate in conflict zones,” Rietzlaff said.

The raids targeted offices of UN agencies and NGOs including Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Islamic Relief Worldwide, Action Against Hunger, Human Appeal, and ACTED. Armed Houthi forces reportedly confiscated equipment and documents, and restricted access to the premises.

The German ambassador urged the Houthis to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the safety and freedom of humanitarian workers. He also called on the international community to respond firmly to protect aid operations and uphold the principles of humanitarian neutrality.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from donor countries and aid organizations, with calls for accountability and guarantees of non-interference in humanitarian work.