NEW YORK — The United Nations Security Council has voted to renew its 2014 sanctions regime on strife-torn Yemen for an additional 12 months, extending the targeted measures until November 14, 2026.
The 15-member Council adopted the United Kingdom-sponsored draft resolution by a vote of 13 in favor and none against, with China and Russia abstaining. Alongside the sanctions extension, the resolution prolongs the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the 2014 Yemen Sanctions Committee until December 15, 2026.
Deterrence and Accountability
Originally established following the Houthi movement’s takeover of the capital city of Sana’a—an event that derailed Yemen’s internationally backed political transition—the 2014 regime is designed to constrain individuals and entities threatening the country’s peace, security, and stability.
Pakistan Emphasizes Dialogue and Regional Restraint
In an explanation of vote, Pakistan’s delegate, Counsellor and Political Coordinator Gul Qaiser Sarwani, reaffirmed Islamabad’s backing for the resolution and underscored the critical role of the 2014 Sanctions Committee.
“Ensuring accountability for individuals and entities that jeopardize Yemen’s stability and security remains essential to laying the foundations for a durable and sustainable peace,” Sarwani told the Council, while noting that the Panel of Experts must operate strictly under the Committee’s direction and within the spirit of the original mandate.
Reiterating Pakistan’s firm commitment to Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, Sarwani urged all domestic parties to engage constructively under UN auspices toward an inclusive, negotiated political settlement. He also called for maximum restraint across the board to avoid actions that could further inflame tensions in the Red Sea region and beyond.