Local sources reported Sunday that Houthi rebels in the capital Sana’a have imposed new restrictions on United Nations’ agencies and international organizations, forcing additional requirements on travelers through Sana’a International Airport (SAH).
The restrictions require humanitarian workers to provide detailed information about all electronic devices they carry before departure, including mobile phones, laptops, and related accessories, as a condition for obtaining security clearance.
Source explained that the circular was distributed to coordinators of the UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), stipulating that travelers must specify the brand, type, and model of their personal phones and laptops, as well as accessories such as wireless mice, chargers, and headphones. Those data be collected and submitted via email to Houthi rebels’ authorities when applying for travel permits.
The source mentioned that failure to comply with these restrictions could result in denial of boarding or delays in securing necessary approvals.
This latest measure adds to a series of restrictions imposed by the Houthis on humanitarian operations in Yemen, raising concerns among aid agencies about the growing obstacles to staff mobility and relief delivery.