The United States has escalated its campaign against the Houthi movement in Yemen by implementing a new series of sanctions. The U.S. Treasury Department announced on September 10, 2025, that it had sanctioned 32 individuals and entities, along with four vessels, to disrupt the group's fundraising, smuggling, and attack operations.
These actions highlight the growing regional tensions, particularly concerning maritime security in the Red Sea. The sanctions target several China-based companies accused of transporting military components to the Houthis, as well as petroleum smugglers and Houthi-affiliated shipping companies. John K. Hurley, the U.S. Undersecretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, stated that the Houthis continue to pose a threat to U.S. personnel and assets, attack U.S. allies, and undermine international maritime security in coordination with Iran.
The Houthis have been responsible for numerous drone and missile attacks on vessels in the Red Sea since late 2023, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza as their motivation. This latest U.S. action follows a period of intensified conflict. On September 7, 2025, a Houthi drone attack struck Israel's Ramon Airport, injuring two people and causing temporary flight disruptions. In response, Israel conducted airstrikes on September 10, 2025, targeting Houthi positions in Yemen's Al Jawf and Sanaa regions. Houthi officials reported that these Israeli strikes resulted in at least 35 fatalities and over 130 injuries, affecting military camps, a fuel storage facility, and a fuel station. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed striking military targets, including camps with operatives, the Houthi propaganda headquarters, and a fuel depot.
Adding to the complex situation, Jordan's foreign ministry announced on September 10, 2025, the release of Lana Shukri Kataw, a Jordanian UNICEF deputy representative. Kataw, along with at least 19 other UN staffers, had been detained by the Houthis in late August 2025. The detention of UN personnel underscores the challenging environment for international organizations operating in conflict zones.
Iran's role in supporting the Houthis remains a significant factor in regional dynamics. Experts indicate that Iran provides the Houthis with weapons, training, and intelligence, bolstering their military capabilities, particularly in missile and drone technology. This support has enabled the Houthis to project power into the Red Sea, impacting global maritime trade. The economic consequences of these disruptions are substantial, with rerouted shipping adding weeks to transit times and increasing costs, estimated to significantly impact the global economy in 2024. The ongoing cycle of attacks and retaliatory measures underscores the volatile nature of the region and the interconnectedness of the conflicts in Gaza and Yemen. The international community continues to monitor these developments closely, seeking pathways to de-escalate tensions and restore stability.