The situation in Yemen remains a protracted crisis characterized by political and military complexity, a stalled peace process, and severe humanitarian deterioration, leaving two-thirds of the population in need of assistance, according to a recent report presented by the United Nations Panel of Experts on Yemen to the Security Council.
The UN Panel of Experts' Yemen is an expert group that assists the UN Security Council's 2140 Yemen Sanctions Committee by providing assessments and recommendations related to the sanctions regime.
The report noted that despite the issuance of several UN resolutions, particularly Resolution 2216 (2015), the implementation of the financial sanctions against Houthis has been limited. adding that assets freezes and travel bans have a limited or constrained effect on the rebels, which actively and successfully circumvents restrictions through sophisticated networks of intermediaries and front companies in the region.
The report called on the Security Council to take stronger action, and support diplomatic efforts to revive the comprehensive Yemeni dialogue under the auspices of the United Nations.
The report added that analysis of Houthi smuggling trends revealed continued violation of the arms embargo, including through concealment or misleading declarations.
The report noted that the knowledge and ability to manufacture weapons systems domestically remains in place, making it challenging to eliminate the Houthis’ capabilities.
In addition, the availability of financial resources plays a major role in maintaining supply lines and manufacturing capabilities, taking into account the Panel’s assessment that the asset freeze has had limited effect.
The report mentioned that the UN Panel is continuing its investigations into the evolving relationship between the Houthis and Somali Harakat Al-Shabaab, adding that “That cooperation involves weapons smuggling, technical training, including in relation to operational tactics, and exchange of logistical support”.