UN-led sanctions on Yemen target forces opposing the internationally recognised government of President Abdurabbuh Al Hadi in the country’s ongoing civil war. They have been in place since 2014. A US programme was first instituted in 2012, targeting parties opposing a peace agreement according to which Al Hadi’s predecessor, Ali Abdullah Saleh, left government.
On 14th November 2023 the UN extended its Yemen sanctions regime until 15th November 2024.
Sanction Name
UN Security Council Regulations Against Yemen
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Asset Freeze, Arms Embargo and Travel Ban:
• Entities seeking to disrupt the political transition in Yemen. Includes an embargo on the provision of arms or materiel to such groups.
Exemptions
1. There is an exemption on frozen assets with regards to judicial, administrative or arbitral liens or judgments, as well as on interests, earnings and payments due under contracts, agreements or obligations entered into prior to the listing of a sanctioned party.
2. Travel ban exemptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis where it would further peace and stability in Yemen as well as for humanitarian purposes and the fulfilment of judicial processes.
Sanction Name
Restrictive Measures In View Of The Situation In Yemen
SANCTIONS
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Asset Freeze, Arms Embargo and Travel Ban:
• Individuals deemed to be obstructing the transition of power in Yemen following the 2011 peace agreement. Includes a ban on the supply of arms and related materiel to these entities.
Exemptions
1. Travel ban exemptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis where it would further peace and stability in Yemen as well as for humanitarian purposes.
2. Asset freeze exemptions are permitted for basic expenses, the provision of legal and professional services, fees for the holding of frozen funds and for the satisfaction of judicial, administrative or arbitral liens or judgments.
Sanction Name
Regulation on measures against Yemen
SANCTIONS
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Asset Freeze, Arms Embargo and Travel Ban:
• Individuals and entities undermining the stability of Yemen. This includes those who are involved in human rights abuses, violence against civilians and the recruitment of child soldiers. The programme includes an arms embargo and travel bans.
Exemptions
1. Asset freeze exemptions can be granted to prevent cases of rigor; in respect of existing contracts; to respect credits due under existing judicial, administrative or arbitral judgments; to provide humanitarian aid; or to protect Swiss interests.
Sanction Name
Yemen Sanctions Program
SANCTIONS
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Specially Designated National:
• Entities which have been involved in violence or other acts obstructing the transition of power in Yemen following the 2011 peace agreement and their leaders, as well as those supporting such activity.
On 25th January 2024 the UK and US jointly sanctioned key figures within the Houthi regime. Designations included the Commander of the Houthi Naval Forces and the Houthi Defence Minister, who are both involved in co-ordinating the attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea began in November 2023.
Sanction Name
Yemen (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019
SANCTIONS
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Asset Freeze, Arms Embargo and Travel Ban:
• Individuals deemed to be obstructing the peace, security and stability of Yemen, transition of power following the 2011 peace agreement and those seen as not respecting human rights in the country. Includes a ban on the supply of arms and related materiel to these entities.
Exemptions
1. Travel ban exemptions can be granted on a case-by-case basis where they would further peace and stability in Yemen as well as for humanitarian purposes.
2. Asset freeze exemptions are permitted for basic expenses, the provision of legal and professional services, fees for the holding of frozen funds and for the satisfaction of judicial, administrative or arbitral liens or judgments.
