Houthi rebels in Yemen release two US hostages, Pompeo commends 'tenacious diplomacy'

United States secured release of two US citizens held host by Houthi rebels in Yemen, apparently a part of a large prisoner exchange. Sandra Loli, a humanitarian worker, and businessman Mikael Gida were released from Houthi custody, said US officials on October 14. State Secretary Mike Pompeo said in a statement that remains of a third American, who died in captivity, are being repatriated.

Pompeo thanked Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia for ir diplomatic efforts in securing release of hosts. top US diplomat also commended “tenacious diplomacy” of American embassies in region who helped facilitate this release.

“Today’s news is latest affirmation that President Trump remains committed to bringing every American held host or wrongfully detained abro back home. This ministration will t rest until y are all reunited with ir families,” statement re.

prisoner swap comes after more than 200 Yemenis returned from Oman after receiving medical treatment and were received by Houthis. A Houthi spokesman h earlier tweeted that returning Yemenis included those who h been stranded or were injured and travelled to Muscat to receive medical treatment.

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Conflict in Yemen

Yemen has been marred with internal conflicts for years in which factions are backed by external forces like Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. In 2015, Saudi Arabia and UAE intervened in conflict on request of former Yemeni President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hi, and continued fighting has caused disproportionate suffering for civilians. 

Over 100,000 people have lost ir lives in ongoing civil war and millions depend on international food aid, making it one of biggest humanitarian crises. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres h me an appeal for an immediate global ceasefire fearing a collapse of health systems in war-ravd countries amid COVID-19 pandemic.

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