Barran Press
The American Center for Justice (ACJ) expressed "deep concern" on Wednesday regarding confirmed reports that the Houthi group, designated as a terrorist organization, has referred several Yemeni employees to the criminal prosecution office for investigation without allowing access to their lawyers.
In a statement reviewed by "Barran Press," the human rights organization noted that this action is part of the ongoing repressive campaign by the Houthis against foreign workers and international organizations in Yemen.
The ACJ revealed that six Yemeni employees, who previously worked at the U.S. Embassy and affiliated entities, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the American Language Institute, have been detained since October 2021. Among those referred is Abdul Qadir Al-Saqaf, 74, who served as the political section head at the U.S. Embassy for 27 years before his retirement.
Since June, the Iran-backed Houthi group has intensified its crackdown, arresting 13 Yemeni employees from UN agencies and dozens from international and local humanitarian organizations. Human rights reports indicate that approximately 70 individuals have been detained during this campaign.