UN resolution proposes punishing those undermining Yemen’s political transition

Sanctions would be aimed at those who are found to be “obstructing or undermining the successful completion of the political transition” in Yemen, who commit “attacks on essential infrastructure or acts of terrorism” and who violate human rights and international humanitarian law, the UN document said.

UNITED NATIONS // A proposed UN Security Council resolution would authorise sanctions against individuals and organisations threatening peace, security or stability in Yemen.

The draft resolution hits offenders with a travel ban and an asset freeze “for an initial period of one year”.

Sanctions would be aimed at those who are found to be “obstructing or undermining the successful completion of the political transition” in Yemen, who commit “attacks on essential infrastructure or acts of terrorism” and who violate human rights and international humanitarian law, the document said.

Some countries had wanted former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, often blamed for the unrest, named in the document, but the draft resolution refrains from listing any specific individuals or entities. Instead it would establish a committee to make such decisions.

The measures could be approved this week by the council, which is “pretty united on Yemen”, a western diplomat said.

Yemen has been struggling with its transition to democracy since Arab Spring protests in 2011 forced Mr Saleh to step down after 33 years as president. A transitional government led by Abdrabu Mansur Hadi is trying to promote national reconciliation, draft a new constitution and hold elections.

But an Al Qaeda insurgency has undermined efforts towards democracy and security officials claims that Saleh loyalists in the country’s security and intelligence agencies have quietly backed the terrorist group.

The draft resolution also emphasises that “the transition process requires turning the page” from Mr Saleh’s rule.

The proposed Security Council resolution condemns Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and welcomes the road map for a Yemeni-led political transition agreed on by all political parties at the national dialogue conference.

The proposed new resolution also determines “that the situation in Yemen constitutes a threat to international peace and security in the region”.

It authorises an asset freeze and travel ban under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter, which can be enforced militarily, against those “engaging in or providing support for acts that threaten the peace, security or stability of Yemen.”

* Associated Press and Agence France-Presse