Archive · 14 Aug 2025
UN's Oil Tanker: From Environmental Aid to Houthi Support
Imagine a rusty oil tanker called Safer near Yemen was about to spill tons of oil.
The UN bought a new tanker, the Yemen, to move the oil and prevent the spill.
But, the Yemen is now controlled by the Houthis, a group in Yemen, and they are using it to store and sell oil.
The Yemen is also helping Russia by transferring its oil, which breaks the rules.
The UN pays money to keep the Yemen running, which helps the Houthis too.
Critics say the UN's plan didn't work and unintentionally supported the Houthis.
The UN purchased an oil tanker, the Yemen, to prevent an environmental disaster near Yemen's coast.
The Houthis now control the Yemen and use it as a floating fuel station.
The Yemen is allegedly being used to help Russia evade sanctions by transferring oil.
The UN pays for the Yemen's operations, which benefits the Houthis.
Critics argue the UN's actions have inadvertently supported the Houthis and their activities.
- Who
- The UN, the Houthis, Russia, and Yemen's internationally recognized government.
- What
- The UN's purchase of an oil tanker and its subsequent use by the Houthis for oil operations and alleged sanction evasion.
- When
- The Yemen was purchased in 2023. Oil transfers occurred from early 2024 to June 2025.
- Where
- Off the coast of Yemen, in the Red Sea.
- Why
- The UN intended to prevent an environmental disaster, but the operation has led to the Houthis' advantage.
UN's actions
Houthis' actions
Intent vs. Outcome
UN's actions
The UN tried to prevent an environmental disaster.
Houthis' actions
The UN's actions have unintentionally supported the Houthis.
Port Control
UN's actions
The UN's role in maintaining the port's infrastructure
Houthis' actions
Houthi control in that region has enabled attacks on commercial vessels.
- Tanker Name
- Yemen
- Purchase Cost
- $55 million
- Monthly Operations Cost
- $450,000
- Original Purpose
- To prevent an oil spill from the FSO Safer
- Alleged Activity
- Facilitating Russian oil transfers