Washington: The US has issued a strong condemnation against the Houthi group for the unlawful detention of current and former local employees of the US mission in Yemen, calling for their "immediate and unconditional" release.

According to Anadolu Agency, Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott indicated that these detentions are part of a larger pattern of coercion. The Houthis have reportedly intensified their campaign of intimidation and abuse against Yemeni citizens connected with international organizations and foreign governments.

Pigott stated, "The Houthis' arrests of those staff, and the sham proceedings that have been brought against them, are further evidence that the Houthis rely on the use of terror against their own people as a way to stay in power." He underscored that Washington considers the detentions to be unlawful and politically motivated, reiterating the US demand for the immediate and unconditional release of the mission staff.

The Houthis have detained several Yemeni nationals who previously collaborated with the US and other international institutions. Additionally, as many as 59 UN personnel are currently in the group's custody, as confirmed by Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-general's spokesman.

Pigott's statement comes in the wake of ongoing efforts by the US and its partners to exert pressure on the group regarding its domestic actions and regional activities, including operations impacting Red Sea shipping routes.

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi group seized control of the nation's capital, Sanaa, prompting the government to relocate to the south.