Houthi rebels release 153 'conflict-related' Yemeni prisoners: Video
Yemen's Houthi rebels have unilaterally released 153 prisoners, described as "conflict-related," according to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
This move is seen as part of ongoing efforts to ease tensions and foster peace in the war-torn region.
The release took place on Saturday, January 25 in Sanaa, the Yemeni capital, which has been under Houthi control since 2014. The prisoners included individuals who were sick, wounded, or elderly, highlighting the humanitarian nature of the gesture.
Abdul Qader al-Murtada, head of the Houthis' Committee for Prisoners' Affairs, emphasised that the initiative aimed to build trust and pave the way for more serious and honest dealings in the future.
Iskandar Al-Maamari, spokesperson of the International Committee of the Red Cross also echoed these sentiments.
"The International Committee of the Red Cross expresses its readiness to play a neutral mediator role to facilitate similar releases," Iskandar said during a press briefing.
Christine Cipolla, the ICRC's head of delegation in Yemen, further expressed hope that this release would lead to more such positive steps.
"This operation has brought much-needed relief and joy to families who have been anxiously waiting for the return of their loved ones," she said.
This release comes amid a fragile ceasefire that has significantly reduced hostilities in Yemen. The ceasefire, brokered by the United Nations in 2022, has been a crucial step towards ending the conflict that has devastated the country for over a decade.
