An executive order issued by President Obama today authorizes sanctions against people and entities who “obstruct” Yemen’s political transition, the latest sign of the administration’s increased focus on the country.The order allows the Treasury Department, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to seize the U.S.-based assets, or assets that come under the control of a U.S. person or entity, of anyone who has “engaged in acts that directly or indirectly threaten the peace, security, or stability of Yemen, such as acts that obstruct the implementation of the agreement of November 23, 2011, between the Government of Yemen and those in opposition to it.” The order also allows for sanctions against those who support such acts, and those who work on behalf of people performing such acts.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://talkingpointsmemo.com/?p=98755