NYN | News
In an unprecedented and bold move, Sana’a has imposed sanctions on American entities and individuals—becoming the first country to take such an action against the United States.
The Humanitarian Operations Coordination Center (HOCC) in Sana’a announced today the issuance of a decision placing 13 entities, 9 individuals, and two oil tankers on the sanctions list known as PAYAIS, citing violations of a ban on the export of U.S. crude oil.
The sanctions targeted several major U.S. energy companies, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Phillips 66, Valero Energy, and Marathon Petroleum, as well as shipping and logistics firms involved in export operations.
The HOCC stated that the move is part of the enforcement of decision PD-05-25-001, which prohibits the export of American crude oil. It was described as a direct response to U.S. sanctions issued in June, July, and September 2025, and as an implementation of the principle of reciprocity enshrined in Yemeni legislation.
The decision bans all direct or indirect dealings with the listed individuals, entities, and assets—including through intermediaries or shell companies—and allows for an expanded scope of sanctions to include subsidiaries, executives, and their family members.
Notable individuals named in the decision include:
Darren Woods (CEO of ExxonMobil)
Michael Wirth (CEO of Chevron)
Ryan Lance (CEO of ConocoPhillips)
Also sanctioned are the oil tankers SEAWAYS SAN SABA and SEAWAYS BRAZOS.
The HOCC emphasized that the purpose of these sanctions is not punitive, but rather aimed at pressuring the involved parties to alter their behavior, noting that the names could be removed from the list if they comply with the specified legal conditions.
