The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has issued a strong condemnation following an aerial attack on Sana’a airport in Yemen. The incident occurred on December 26, just as the WHO team was concluding its mission to address the health and humanitarian crisis in Yemen and negotiate the release of detained United Nations staff members.

Dr. Tedros, alongside UN and WHO colleagues, narrowly escaped harm during the attack, which occurred around 5 PM local time. Tragically, at least two individuals were killed, and a crew member of their plane sustained injuries. The air traffic control tower, departure lounge—located mere meters from the team—and the runway sustained significant damage.

“We continue to call for the immediate release of the detainees,” Dr. Tedros emphasized in his statement, while extending heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

The team is now stranded in Sana’a until airport repairs are completed. The WHO reassures that all staff are safe and remains committed to its humanitarian mission in Yemen despite the dangerous circumstances.