Washington, D.C. – The United States government has announced new sanctions targeting a Houthi petroleum and financial network, in an effort to disrupt the Iran-backed rebel group’s illicit revenue generation and bolster regional security.
According to the Office of the Spokesperson, two individuals and five entities have been added to the list of those subject to U.S. sanctions. These actors are accused of importing refined petroleum products and evading sanctions in support of the Houthis, generating millions in personal gains while strengthening the group’s ability to threaten shipping lanes vital to international commerce.
The move is part of a broader effort by the United States to counter terrorism and promote regional security in Yemen. The Department of State re-designated Ansarallah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization on March 4, 2025, pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended.
Today’s action is being taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13224, as amended, and builds on numerous actions by the Department of the Treasury’s Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions. The sanctions target financial facilitators, suppliers, and other individuals and entities that have supported the Houthis’ illicit revenue generation.
The U.S. government remains committed to disrupting the Houthis’ ability to generate revenue through illicit means, while also promoting freedom of navigation and upholding regional security. This latest action is part of a series of measures aimed at countering terrorist financing and sanctions evasion.
Key Sanctions Targets:
- Two individuals
- Five entities involved in importing refined petroleum products and evading sanctions in support of the Houthis
- Financial facilitators, suppliers, and other individuals and entities that have supported the Houthis’ illicit revenue generation
In a statement, Tammy Bruce, Department Spokesperson, said: “The United States is committed to disrupting the Houthis’ illicit revenue generation by maintaining pressure on financial facilitators that fuel the Houthi enterprise. Today’s action builds on our resolve to counter terrorism, promote regional security, and uphold freedom of navigation.”
The sanctions imposed today are in line with the U.S. government’s commitment to promoting regional security and countering terrorist financing. The Department of the Treasury will provide more information on the affected entities and individuals in a forthcoming press release.
A Broader Effort to Counter Terrorism
The United States’ efforts to counter terrorism and promote regional security are ongoing. In addition to sanctions, the government has taken other measures aimed at disrupting terrorist financing and preventing sanctions evasion.
As part of this broader effort, the Department of State continues to work with international partners to address the threat posed by terrorist organizations like Ansarallah. The U.S. government remains committed to promoting regional security and countering terrorist financing in all its forms.
Conclusion
The U.S. government’s latest sanctions against a Houthi petroleum and financial network represent an important step in disrupting the Iran-backed rebel group’s illicit revenue generation. As part of our broader efforts to counter terrorism and promote regional security, we will continue to take action against those who seek to undermine international stability.