Panama issues alert on security risks at Ras Isa Port in Yemen

As stated, the alert follows the recent escalation of hostilities in the region and the expiration of U.S. sanctions relief, which has heightened the threat to maritime operations in the area.

On 4 April, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) allowed the General License 25A to expire. Consequently, any delivery or discharge of petroleum products in ports controlled by the Houthi movement, including Ras Isa, is now considered to be material support to a designated terrorist organization under U.S. sanctions law. Vessels and associated parties found to be involved in such activities are at risk of being listed on the OFAC Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.

Furthermore, several vessels and their operating companies have already been sanctioned for discharging cargo at Ras Isa following the expiration of the license. OFAC has reiterated that further support to the Houthis, including through maritime delivery of fuel or oil, could subject vessels, owners, operators, insurers, and financiers to U.S. sanctions.

In addition to sanctions, the port area remains under high threat due to recent U.S. airstrikes targeting the terminal and retaliatory Houthi attacks. The U.S. strike at Ras Isa terminal on 17 April, 2025, resulted in over 80 fatalities, including port workers and first responders. The site remains volatile and dangerous for maritime operations. 

Vessels currently anchored off Ras Isa awaiting discharge are advised to assess the full scope of legal and security risks. Departure from the area without discharge may incur commercial penalties, but proceeding may result in exposure to OFAC sanctions.

The Panama Maritime Authority strongly advises consultation with legal counsel regarding potential exposure to U.S. or other international sanctions before proceeding to Ras Isa or similar ports under Houthi control.