U.N. chief António Guterres urges Houthis to free detained individuals in Yemen

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antnio Guterres, has urged the Houthi rebels in Yemen to release all detained personnel. His appeal comes as part of his ongoing efforts to de-escalate the ongoing tensions in the region. Guterres emphasized the importance of resolving the conflict through dialogue, stressing that unilateral actions would only hinder peace efforts.

In addition to calling for the release of detainees, Guterres expressed concern over the growing divisions within Yemen, exacerbated by actions such as the recent advance of the Southern Transitional Council (STC) towards Hadramawt and al-Mahra. The STC, a separatist group, has been gaining ground in the south, further complicating the already fragile situation. Meanwhile, the Houthis continue to control the capital, Sana'a.

"Unilateral actions, as I have told the Security Council, do not pave the way for peace," Guterres remarked. "They only deepen existing rifts, solidify opposing positions, and increase the likelihood of broader conflict and fragmentation across the country."

The U.N. chief reiterated the need for all parties involved in the conflict to come together and seek a peaceful resolution through constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.

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• U.N. head António Guterres calls for Houthis to release detained personnel in Yemen