US announces additional sanctions against Houthi financier

The US State Department announced on Tuesday additional sanctions against Iran-backed Houthi financier Sa’id al-Jamal, whose network provides funding and transportation of weapons for the terrorist group.Tuesday’s designation is the sixth round of sanctions since the end of 2023 targeting al-Jamal’s extensive network, according to a statement from the State Department.

“We call on the international maritime community to take additional steps to prevent the abuse of global energy markets by terrorist groups like the IRGC-QF, the Houthis, and Hezbollah,” the statement said. “We will continue to use the tools at our disposal to target those who ship illicit cargo to benefit terrorist groups.”

According to a statement, the Treasury Department previously sanctioned al-Jamal in 2021.

“Sa’id al-Jamal, an Iran-based Houthi financial supporter, directs a network of front companies and vessels that smuggle Iranian fuel, petroleum products, and other commodities to customers throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

A significant portion of the revenue generated from these sales is directed through a complex international network of intermediaries and exchange houses to the Houthis in Yemen,” the Treasury Department said in 2021.

A way for Iran to avoid sanctions

“This revenue helps fund the destabilizing regional activities of the Houthis, IRGC-QF, and others, including Hezbollah. Sa’id al-Jamal’s network has generated tens of millions of dollars in revenue through the sale of Iranian commodities to those willing to evade sanctions.

Sa’id al-Jamal also maintains connections to Hezbollah and has worked with the group to send millions of dollars to support the Houthis.”