US Imposes Sanctions on Entities Funding Houthis in Yemen

Washington: The United States government announced stringent sanctions on Thursday targeting entities and individuals believed to be significantly funding the Houthi militia operations in Yemen. According to Kuwait News Agency, the State Department revealed that the new sanctions would affect five companies and five individuals. Additionally, eight ships have been classified as "prohibited properties." These entities are allegedly connected to Saeed Al-Jamal, described by the US as the "financial agent for the Houthis," who are supported by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards. The State Department's statement emphasized the ongoing support of the Iranian regime for groups that destabilize the Middle East. It specifically accused the network led by Al-Jamal of funneling funds necessary for the Houthis to carry out attacks and disrupt international shipping activities, particularly through crucial maritime routes. Furthermore, the statement highlighted that this set of sanctions marks the 11th round of penaltie s imposed against Al-Jamal and his network. This action follows a recent decision by Washington on January 17, when it re-designated the Houthi militia as a terrorist organization. The designation came in response to repeated attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, a critical global shipping lane.