Mohammad el-Shami worked for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights prior to being arbitrarily detained by the Houthis on June 6, 2024. António Guterres expressed deep shock over the fatality and demanded an impartial, thorough inquiry into the unexplained circumstances surrounding the incident. High Commissioner Volker Türk emphasized that the family deserves the truth after discovering el-Shami died more than a month before authorities notified them. Türk noted that officials have provided no details or explanation regarding the cause of death.
Key points
UN leadership is demanding full transparency and an explanation regarding el-Shami's caus…: UN leadership is demanding full transparency and an explanation regarding el-Shami's cause of death.
Volker Türk emphasized that the bereaved family deserves to know the truth about the circ…: Volker Türk emphasized that the bereaved family deserves to know the truth about the circumstances.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding the safety and arbitrary detention of…: The incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding the safety and arbitrary detention of human rights personnel.
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United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres says he is “appalled” by the death of UN staff member Mohammad el-Shami in Houthi custody in Yemen.
A spokesperson for Guterres said the UN chief condemns the death of el-Shami, who worked with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and “calls for an immediate, impartial, transparent & thorough investigation”.
In a statement, the spokesperson said the circumstances surrounding “this appalling tragedy” remain unclear.
Meanwhile, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk termed el-Shami's death “utterly devastating”, and urges the Houthis to ensure a prompt investigation.
El-Shami had been arbitrarily held by the Houthis since 6 June 2024, the UN said.
His family told the UN he died more than a month ago, but were informed only recently, and have received no explanation of the cause or circumstances. “They deserve to know the truth,” Turk said.
.@antonioguterres is appalled & condemns the death of a @UNHumanRights colleague, Mohammad el Shami, while in the custody of the Houthi de facto authorities in Yemen. He calls for an immediate, impartial,…
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