3 Ships Sanctioned for Fueling Yemen’s Houthi Conflict

In a decisive move underscoring its commitment to curtailing Iranian influence in the region, the United States has enacted sanctions against three vessels and several companies implicated in the supply of oil and gas to the Yemeni Houthis. These ships, which have been transporting vital petroleum products to the Houthi-controlled port of Ras Isa, are now at the centre of a significant geopolitical confrontation.

The sanctions, as reported by UNN citing Reuters and Bloomberg, target vessels linked to firms registered in the Marshall Islands and Mauritius.

The US Treasury Department has explicitly condemned these entities for their role in facilitating the transport of liquefied petroleum gas and gas oil to the Houthi rebels, who have been designated as a “foreign terrorist organization” by Washington since March.

This designation was made in light of the group’s alleged threats to the safety of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, as well as to regional partners and the integrity of global maritime trade.

Among those sanctioned are Zaas Shipping & Trading Co and Great Success Shipping Co, both registered in the Marshall Islands, alongside Bagsak Shipping Co from Mauritius.

These companies have been accused of utilising cargo ships to deliver oil and gas products to the Houthi-controlled port, thereby enabling the group to finance military operations.

The US Treasury Department’s statement highlights the dire consequences of these activities, noting that the Houthis utilise the proceeds from petroleum sales to procure military equipment, which in turn exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by creating an artificial shortage of essential goods for ordinary citizens and fostering rampant corruption among Houthi leaders.

As the situation unfolds, the implications of these sanctions resonate far beyond the immediate economic impact, reflecting a broader struggle for influence in a region fraught with conflict and instability.

The US’s unwavering stance against the Houthis serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in addressing the humanitarian needs of Yemen while simultaneously countering the malign influence of Iranian-backed factions.

Source: UNN