US Imposes Sanctions on Eritrean Actors Amidst Ethiopia Crisis

US Department of the Treasury’s Response to Growing Humanitarian and Human Rights Crisis in Ethiopia

The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated four entities and two individuals under Executive Order 14046 in response to the escalating humanitarian and human rights crisis in Ethiopia. The move targets Eritrean actors who have contributed to the conflict, undermining the stability and integrity of the Ethiopian state.

Key Points

• Eritrea’s military presence in northern Ethiopia is hindering efforts to end the ongoing fighting and increase humanitarian access.
• The US is working with partners to support a negotiated cessation of hostilities in Ethiopia while urging Eritrea to withdraw its forces from the country.

Designated Entities and Individuals

The individuals and entities designated include:

• Eritrean Defense Force: Operating in northern Ethiopia, reports indicate looting, sexual assault, killing civilians, and blocking humanitarian aid.
• People’s Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ): The sole legal political party in Eritrea, led by President Isaias Afwerki, who oversees the command and control of the EDF.
• Abraha Kassa Nemariam: Head of the Eritrean National Security Office, designated for being a leader or official responsible for or complicit in activities contributing to the crisis.
• Hidri Trust: The holding company of all PFDJ business enterprises.
• Hagos Ghebrehiwet W Kidan: Economic advisor to the PFDJ and CEO of Red Sea Trading Corporation.
• Red Sea Trading Corporation

Impact of Designations

The designations will block property and interests in property of the individuals and entities named, which are in the US or in possession or control of US persons. This move aims to cut off financial support for Eritrean actors involved in the crisis.

General Licenses Issued by OFAC

To ensure that U.S. sanctions do not limit humanitarian assistance to civilians in Ethiopia, Eritrea, and the region, OFAC has issued three general licenses. The Treasury Department remains committed to ensuring that international organizations and NGOs can continue their work in the area.

Conclusion

The US has called on Eritrea to withdraw its forces from northern Ethiopia while urging a peaceful resolution to the crisis. As a result of the sanctions, all property and interests in property of the designated individuals and entities are blocked, and must be reported to OFAC.