- The Panama Maritime Authority warns of serious legal and security risks for vessels at Yemen’s Ras Isa Port following the expiry of U.S. sanctions relief.
- OFAC has sanctioned several vessels for discharging cargo at Ras Isa and may target further deliveries of fuel or oil to Houthi-controlled areas.
- Recent U.S. airstrikes and Houthi retaliations have made Ras Isa terminal a highly volatile and dangerous location for maritime operations.
- Vessels are urged to consult legal counsel to understand potential U.S. and international sanctions before approaching or discharging at Ras Isa.
The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has alerted operators of Panamanian-flagged vessels about significant operational, legal, and security risks at Yemen’s Ras Isa Port. This warning comes amid rising regional hostilities and the end of U.S. sanctions relief. On April 4, 2025, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) let General License 25A expire, making any delivery or discharge of petroleum products at Houthi-controlled ports, including Ras Isa, a violation of U.S. sanctions. Such actions may lead to vessels and involved parties being added to the OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.
Increased Risks and Sanctions at Ras Isa Port
Several vessels and their operators have already faced sanctions for unloading cargo at Ras Isa following the expiration of General License 25A. The U.S. Treasury’s OFAC has warned that any further deliveries of fuel or oil to Houthi-controlled areas could lead to sanctions against vessels, owners, operators, insurers, and financiers involved.
Beyond sanctions, the port remains highly dangerous due to recent U.S. airstrikes and retaliatory attacks by the Houthis. A U.S. strike on April 17, 2025, at Ras Isa terminal caused over 80 deaths, including port workers and emergency personnel. This ongoing volatility makes maritime operations in the area particularly hazardous.
Vessels anchored near Ras Isa waiting to discharge cargo should carefully weigh the legal and security risks. While leaving without unloading may lead to commercial penalties, proceeding with discharge could result in sanctions under U.S. law.
The Panama Maritime Authority strongly recommends seeking legal advice on potential U.S. and international sanctions exposure before entering Ras Isa or other ports under Houthi control.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
