Today marks four years since the Iran-backed Houthi group detained Yemeni staff working at the U.S. Embassy in Sana’a. The incident, which occurred in 2021, has been a source of ongoing concern for U.S. officials and the families of those detained.
U.S. Ambassador to Yemen Steven H. Fagin addressed the anniversary by expressing continued support for the detained staff and their families. "As the U.S. Ambassador to Yemen, I carry the burden of this injustice every day. My thoughts and the efforts of our Mission remain fixed on these innocent individuals and their families, who have endured their absence for far too long."
Ambassador Fagin described the detention as an act of cruelty by the Houthis, stating, "The continued detention and abuse of these dedicated professionals is an act of calculated cruelty that defines the Houthi organization. This systematic hostage-taking – which they continue to inflict to this day even on humanitarian aid staff trying to help Yemeni citizens – is the hallmark of a group that cares nothing for the welfare of the Yemeni people or for the rule of law."
He further criticized the actions of the Houthis, saying, "Rather than giving up their nihilistic vision, the Houthis scapegoat innocent Yemenis, accuse them of espionage, and manufacture grievances that are disconnected from the dreams and aspirations of normal Yemeni citizens. The Houthis’ use of fabricated evidence, forced 'confessions,' and the suppression of Yemeni voices are profound violations of human dignity, and prove that their isolation from the global community is a fitting response to their total lack of credibility."
Ambassador Fagin concluded with a message to the families of those detained: "To the families of my colleagues, I renew our pledge: The United States will not forget you. We will not relent in our pressure, and we will not rest until every person unjustly detained is released unconditionally and returned home to their loved ones."
The United States continues to call for the unconditional release of all embassy staff detained by the Houthis.