SANAA — Yemen’s Houthi movement has denounced United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres, accusing him of meddling in the country’s internal affairs after his condemnation of the group’s detention of UN staff and restrictions on humanitarian operations.

In a statement, the Houthis rejected Guterres’ remarks as “biased” and claimed they undermine Yemen’s sovereignty. 

The militia insisted its actions against aid workers and UN personnel were lawful under domestic procedures, while accusing the UN of siding with foreign powers.

Guterres had earlier described the detention of dozens of UN employees in Houthi‑controlled areas as “arbitrary” and a violation of international law, warning that such measures obstruct humanitarian relief and cast doubt on the group’s commitment to peace efforts.

The dispute highlights escalating tensions between the Houthis and the United Nations, raising concerns about the future of aid delivery in a country already facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.