On Reports of U.S. Citizens Detained in Yemen

Press Statement

Press Statement
Mark C. Toner
Deputy Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
September 27, 2016

We are deeply concerned by reports of U.S. citizens being unjustly detained by the Houthi-controlled National Security Bureau in Yemen.

Such detentions are unacceptable, put in jeopardy any Houthi efforts to establish that they are credible and responsible interlocutors, and invite serious questions about their commitment to seek a lasting peace for Yemen.

Should any U.S. citizens in Yemen who are being held unjustly be harmed, it would be the responsibility of those organizations, groups, or individuals detaining them.

The United States is monitoring the situation in Yemen very closely and calls on the Houthis to immediately release any U.S. citizens currently being held.