UN Warns Houthi Seizure of Telecom Equipment Threatens Aid Operations in Yemen

Geneva – The United Nations has raised serious concerns after critical telecommunications equipment used for humanitarian operations was seized in northern Yemen, warning that the move could further endanger millions dependent on aid.

Officials said the incident highlights growing restrictions that are undermining relief efforts in one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

According to the UN, Iran-aligned Houthi forces entered multiple unstaffed offices in the capital Sanaa and removed essential communications gear along with several vehicles.

The equipment was reportedly taken to an unknown location, severely limiting the ability of aid agencies to coordinate lifesaving operations.

UN representatives stressed that telecommunications systems form the backbone of humanitarian presence in remote and conflict-affected areas. Without reliable communication, aid delivery, security coordination, and emergency response become nearly impossible.

Humanitarian officials warned that further interference could force agencies to scale back or suspend operations in Houthi-controlled regions. Such disruptions risk leaving millions without food assistance, healthcare, and basic services.

Sources familiar with the situation said the seizure has already had immediate consequences for aid delivery in the north. One major UN agency has halted operations in several areas due to operational and security challenges.

The suspension has also placed hundreds of humanitarian jobs at risk, with staff contracts expected to end in the coming months. Funding constraints, compounded by donor cuts, have added to the pressure facing relief agencies.

The UN has repeatedly warned that Yemen’s humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate at an alarming pace. An estimated 21 million people across the country require some form of humanitarian assistance.

Years of conflict have devastated the economy, crippled public services, and displaced millions of civilians. Nearly five million people remain internally displaced, struggling to survive amid shortages of food, water, and shelter.

Children remain among the most vulnerable, with hundreds of thousands requiring urgent treatment for severe malnutrition. Health and education systems have been badly disrupted, leaving long-term scars on an entire generation.

UN officials say the seizure of equipment is part of a broader pattern of restrictions on humanitarian access. Aid workers face increasing difficulty entering and exiting areas under Houthi control.

Flights operated by humanitarian air services have been blocked from key cities for months. These flights are often the only safe and reliable means for aid workers to reach isolated communities.

Security concerns for humanitarian staff are also mounting, according to the UN. Dozens of UN personnel have been detained over recent years, creating fear and uncertainty among aid workers.

The UN has denied allegations by Houthi authorities that humanitarian agencies are acting with political or military motives. Officials insist that all operations are strictly humanitarian and focused on saving lives.

In response to worsening conditions, the UN has already relocated some of its coordination functions to government-held areas. This shift reflects growing difficulties in operating safely and effectively in contested regions.

Humanitarian leaders warn that continued restrictions could push Yemen closer to catastrophe. They are urging all parties to respect international humanitarian principles and allow aid to reach those in need.

Diplomats say that safeguarding humanitarian access is essential to preventing further suffering. Without cooperation, millions of Yemenis could face even harsher conditions in the months ahead.