UN demands investigation into death of staffer in Houthi custody

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate investigation into the death of UN staffer Mohammed al-Shami while held by Yemen's Houthi authorities.

• Guterres has called for an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into al-Shami's death, which he said occurred under unclear circumstances.
• Al-Shami, a UN Human Rights Office employee, had been held by the Houthis since June 6, 2024.
• UN High Commissioner Volker Türk demanded an urgent, independent and comprehensive investigation and disclosure of all medical and detention records.
• Guterres expressed concern for 70 UN staff and five former staff still detained, and renewed calls for their immediate and unconditional release.