The U.S. has designated Yemen’s Houthi rebels as a foreign terrorist organization, reinforcing pressure on the group linked to regional destabilization and threats to U.S. interests. This designation, reinstated by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, follows increased attacks on commercial vessels by the Houthis. The designation may complicate humanitarian efforts in Yemen, reflecting the tension between security and humanitarian needs.
The U.S. State Department has designated Yemen’s Houthi rebels, known as Ansarallah, as a foreign terrorist organization under Executive Order 14175 signed by former President Trump. This designation aims to exert increased pressure on the Iranian-backed group, which has been accused of destabilizing the region and threatening U.S. interests. The order states that the Houthis’ actions jeopardize American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, endanger Washington’s allies, and disrupt global maritime trade.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the reinstatement of this designation, which imposes sanctions on anyone providing material support to the Houthis. In 2023, the group intensified its attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting commercial vessels and U.S. military forces. The Houthis appear to focus their attacks on vessels with U.S. flags while avoiding those flagged by China, which has raised concerns among U.S. officials.
The U.S. administration has emphasized its intolerance of any country maintaining relations with groups classified as terrorists, regardless of the rationale of legitimate trade. The designation is intended to enhance national security policy and address what is perceived as a growing threat in the region. The State Department considers terrorism classifications a vital measure for cutting off funding to unlawful armed groups.
Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea trade corridor. While the group limited its attacks to Israeli-affiliated ships after a ceasefire, it has signalled that broader assaults might resume if deemed necessary. Previously, the Houthis were designated as terrorists by the Trump administration, but this was reversed by President Biden’s administration due to concerns regarding humanitarian aid to Yemen.
Recently, UN humanitarian operations in the Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen were suspended following the detention of eight UN officials by the rebels. In recent months, the Houthis have detained numerous UN personnel and people related to humanitarian missions, with no releases reported. The Houthis have been in conflict with Yemen’s internationally recognized government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, since 2014 after taking control of Sanaa.
The U.S. designation of the Houthi rebels as a terrorist organization underscores a heightened approach to addressing threats posed by the group in the region. This decision is part of an ongoing strategy to ensure national security and protect American interests amid escalating attacks by the Houthis. The consequences of this designation may affect humanitarian efforts in Yemen as the conflict persists, demonstrating the complexities surrounding international relations and aid efforts amid ongoing crises.
Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il
