World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had a narrow escape on Thursday when Sanaa International Airport in Yemen came under aerial bombardment. The attack, which occurred as Tedros and his colleagues were about to board a flight, resulted in the deaths of at least two people and injured one of the plane’s crew members.
Tedros, who was on a mission to negotiate the release of UN staff detainees and assess the health and humanitarian situation in Yemen, expressed his gratitude that he and his colleagues were safe. “Our heartfelt condolences to the families whose loved ones lost their lives in the attack,” he said.
The airstrike damaged the air traffic control tower, departure lounge, and runway, forcing Tedros and his team to wait until repairs are made before they can leave. The WHO chief reiterated his call for the immediate release of UN staff detainees.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, emphasizing that civilians and humanitarian workers must never be targeted. He called for all parties to cease military actions and exercise restraint.
The Israeli military claimed responsibility for the airstrike, stating that it targeted military infrastructure used by Houthi rebels. The attack is part of a larger conflict between Israel and Houthi forces in Yemen.
