The future of Yemen hangs in the balance, and a recent UN decision has sparked both support and controversy. Pakistan has thrown its weight behind the UN Security Council's extension of sanctions on Yemen, a move intended to promote peace but one that also raises questions about its effectiveness.
On November 16, 2025, the UN Security Council, with Pakistan's backing, voted to extend the 2014 sanctions regime against Yemen for another year, pushing the deadline to November 14, 2026. These sanctions, initially imposed to address the escalating crisis in Yemen, aim to deter actions that threaten the nation's stability and security. Think of it like putting up guardrails to prevent further escalation of conflict. The resolution, sponsored by the United Kingdom, passed with a vote of 13 in favor, with China and Russia abstaining – a detail that already hints at differing perspectives on the issue.
And this is the part most people miss: The resolution also extends the mandate of the Panel of Experts, which supports the Yemen Sanctions Committee, until December 15, 2026. This panel plays a crucial role in monitoring the implementation of the sanctions and providing expert analysis.
But what exactly triggered these sanctions in the first place? The 2014 sanctions were a direct response to the Houthi movement's seizure of Sana'a, the capital city. This takeover effectively derailed the internationally-backed political transition, plunging the country into deeper turmoil. The sanctions target individuals and entities deemed to be obstructing the political process and undermining Yemen's stability.
Addressing the Security Council, Pakistani delegate Gul Qaiser Sarwani emphasized Pakistan's commitment to the 2014 Committee and its role in ensuring accountability. He argued that holding accountable those who jeopardize Yemen's stability is crucial for establishing a lasting peace. Sarwani, serving as counsellor/political coordinator at the Pakistan Mission to the UN, also stressed the importance of the Panel of Experts adhering to the mandate outlined in the 2014 resolution.
Reaffirming Pakistan's unwavering support for Yemen's unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, Sarwani underscored that these principles guide all international efforts related to Yemen. "We further encourage all Yemeni parties to engage constructively and in good faith under UN auspices to bring an end to the conflict through an inclusive, negotiated political solution based on the agreed parameters," he stated, urging restraint from all parties to avoid escalating tensions in the Red Sea region and beyond.
But here's where it gets controversial... Are sanctions truly effective in achieving their intended goals? Some argue that they can disproportionately harm ordinary citizens while failing to significantly impact the targeted individuals or entities. Others maintain that sanctions are a necessary tool to pressure those who undermine peace and stability. For example, critics might say that the sanctions have prolonged the conflict by hindering humanitarian aid and exacerbating economic hardship, while proponents could argue that without sanctions, the Houthis would have faced no external pressure to negotiate. What do you think? Do you believe sanctions are a constructive tool for resolving conflicts, or do they often do more harm than good? Share your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below.
