World · 2026-11-01 · Morning briefing

Yemen: UN demands probe into death of staffer in Houthi custody

The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, has demanded an independent investigation into the death of a staff member held by Houthi authorities in Yemen. The family of Mohammad el Shami, who had been in custody for over two years, was informed of his death only weeks after it occurred.

Mr. el Shami was detained on June 6th, 2024, during a wave of raids in which 13 UN personnel were seized. Mr. Türk called on the Houthis to disclose all medical and detention records and allow independent scrutiny of any stated cause of death, stating there must be "accountability for wrongdoing."

His family say Mr. el Shami died more than a month before they were notified. Mr. Türk said the family has "not received any explanation of the cause or circumstances of his death – they deserve to know the truth."

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

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• UN demands investigation after staffer’s death in Houthi custody in Yemen
• ‘They deserve to know the truth’: UN rights chief demands probe into staffer’s death in Houthi custody
• UN chief condemns death of Yemeni human rights staff member in Houthi custody
• Türk Demands Investigation Into UN Staffer's Death in Yemen
• UN demands investigation into staff member’s death in Houthi detention — Asharq Al-Awsat

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