Secretary-General Strongly Condemns Executions in Yemen, Questioning Houthi Movement’s Adherence to Due Process Standards under International Law

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General deeply regrets that the Houthi movement (who also call themselves Ansar Allah) yesterday carried out executions of nine individuals, one of whom was reportedly a minor at the time of detention, and strongly condemns these actions, which are a result of judicial proceedings that do not appear to have fulfilled the requirements of fair trial and due process under international law.

Stressing that he opposes the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, the Secretary-General reiterates that international law sets stringent conditions for the application of the death penalty, including compliance with fair trial and due process standards as stipulated under international law.  He urgently calls on all parties and authorities to adopt a moratorium on the carrying out of the death penalty.

The Secretary-General is also concerned about a reported air strike by the Saudi-led coalition in Shabwa that allegedly killed at least six civilians from the same family.  He reiterates that directing attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure is prohibited by international humanitarian law.

The Secretary-General urges all actors to cease the violence, and he encourages the Yemeni parties to engage with the United Nations in good faith and without preconditions to reinvigorate political dialogue to find a peaceful negotiated settlement to the conflict that meets the legitimate demands and aspirations of the Yemeni people.