Sana’a — The Houthi militia has publicly expressed its willingness to enter into a comprehensive prisoner exchange agreement with the internationally recognized Yemeni government, in what could mark a significant step toward easing humanitarian suffering and advancing peace efforts in the war-torn country.

Abdul Qader Al-Murtada, head of the Houthi Prisoners’ Affairs Committee, stated that the group is prepared to implement all previously signed agreements under United Nations auspices and is open to a full-scale swap involving all prisoners from all sides, without preconditions. “We declare our readiness to engage in a comprehensive deal that includes all prisoners from all parties without exception,” Al-Murtada said in a statement published by Houthi-run media.

He also called on tribal leaders and social figures to act as local mediators to help facilitate the exchange and end the suffering of detainees. The Houthis urged Saudi Arabia to pressure the Yemeni government to respond positively to the initiative.

The Yemeni government has yet to issue an official response to the proposal. However, previous UN-mediated exchanges have seen the release of hundreds of prisoners, including a major swap in 2023 that involved nearly 900 detainees from both sides.

Observers say the Houthi announcement comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to revive stalled peace talks and build confidence between the warring parties. A successful comprehensive exchange could pave the way for broader negotiations and humanitarian relief.

Human rights organizations have long called for transparency and urgency in resolving the issue of detainees, many of whom have been held for years without trial. Families across Yemen continue to demand answers about the fate of their loved ones, and the proposed deal could offer long-awaited closure.