US Sanctions Iran Over Red Sea, Ignores Saudi Blockade in Yemen
The Hill dutifully reports the US Treasury has sanctioned Iran-linked vessels for 'destabilizing' actions in the Red Sea. Because, apparently, disrupting shipping is only bad when *Iran-linked* groups do it. Meanwhile, the Houthis, who are (allegedly) Iran-allied resistance movements, are blocking ships into Israel (a US ally) in a show of solidarity with Gaza. Funny how US 'free navigation'
concerns dissipate when other allies, say Saudi Arabia, maintain a years-long, devastating blockade on Yemen (supported by US arms and intelligence) that has caused catastrophic famine and deaths—without a peep from the Treasury Department. (UN OCHA, various NGOs) One might wonder if America's 'rules-based order' applies universally, or if it's merely a convenient cudgel against designated enemies
while enabling humanitarian disasters perpetrated by 'friends.' It appears some blockades get headlines and sanctions, while others get state dinners and F-35s. Maybe the Treasury should issue sanctions for selective outrage?