The United States has firmly rejected claims made by Houthi rebels in Yemen, alleging that locally detained US mission staff are part of an 'American-Israeli spy network.' The US State Department spokesman, in a statement, denounced the accusations as disinformation aimed at deflecting blame from the Houthis themselves.
In October 2021, the Houthis detained several Yemeni staff members who had been employed at the US Embassy in Sana’a, with many still being held nearly three years later. The US Embassy in Sana’a ceased operations in 2015.
Recent reports indicate that the Houthi rebels have also detained additional personnel, including United Nations staff, on charges of espionage. The Houthi-controlled Intelligence and Security Service has alleged that the detained US mission staff were part of a long-standing spy network, purportedly recruited by the CIA to target various sectors within Yemen.
Alleged confessions by the detained personnel were broadcast in videos, a move condemned by the US State Department as a deliberate attempt to spread disinformation. The spokesman criticized the forced and fake confessions, emphasizing that the detained individuals had dedicated themselves to serving their country.
The prolonged detention of the locally employed staffers, as well as the UN personnel, was described as a violation of diplomatic norms. The US government called for their immediate release, emphasizing the unjust nature of their captivity by the Houthis.
The US State Department vowed to continue advocating for the release of the detained individuals and expressed unwavering support for their cause. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by diplomatic personnel in conflict zones and the importance of upholding international norms and standards.
