119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 2052
This bill authorizes the President to impose sanctions against foreign persons and entities that support Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden or provide military assistance to the Houthi group. The sanctions include freezing assets in the United States, denying visas and entry to the country, and potentially revoking existing visas for those determined to be involved in these activities. The bill requires the President to submit detailed reports to Congress within 180 days and annually thereafter on the Houthis' military capabilities, their attacks on shipping, weapons violations of the UN arms embargo on Yemen, and Iran's role in supporting the group. The President may waive sanctions on a case-by-case basis for up to 180 days if deemed necessary for national security, but must notify Congress at least 15 days in advance and brief Congress every 60 days while the waiver remains in effect. The legislation is set to expire five years after enactment and aims to protect global commerce and maritime security in critical shipping lanes.