The U.S. State Department has designated Yemen’s Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization per President Trump’s directive. This move raises concerns about regional security and humanitarian crises, especially for the 19 million Yemenis needing assistance. Stakeholders caution that the designation may worsen the humanitarian impact and complicate shipping security in the area.
On March 4, 2025, the U.S. State Department announced the designation of Yemen’s Houthi movement as a “foreign terrorist organization,” following a call from President Donald Trump. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Houthis pose a threat to American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, as well as endangering the stability of global maritime trade. This designation emphasizes the U.S. commitment to not tolerate engagement with groups labeled as terrorist organizations.
This action has raised alarms regarding its implications for regional security and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric highlighted that many humanitarian goods, which rely on private sector importation, could be severely hampered by the new sanctions, raising fears for the 19 million Yemenis dependent on life-saving assistance. Concerns arose that the designation might exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation in the country.
Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer with the BIMCO shipping association, warned that this designation might lead to a further decline in security. The U.S. action reflects a re-designation initially made in January 2025, when President Trump aimed to impose stricter economic penalties on the Houthis due to their attacks on commercial shipping and U.S. Navy vessels. Since November 2023, the Houthis have mounted more than 100 attacks, claiming these were in support of Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In January 2025, the Houthi leader indicated that monitoring of any ceasefire with Israel would dictate their future actions against commercial vessels. With the attacks disrupting global shipping routes, companies have begun re-routing, often leading to longer and costlier voyages. The situation raises concerns over security in the region as tensions escalate further, particularly with a possible U.S. or Israeli response.
President Biden had previously rescinded similar designations upon taking office in 2021 to address humanitarian issues. However, after recent aggressive actions by the Houthis, he adapted the designation to a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist” organization status, although the more severe “foreign terrorist organization” label was only recently reinstated.
The U.S. designation of the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization aims to counter regional threats and impose economic sanctions. However, concerns arise regarding its potential ramifications on humanitarian efforts in Yemen and regional security, exemplifying a complex interplay between addressing terrorism and ensuring humanitarian access. Stakeholders emphasize the need for safeguards to mitigate the impact on civilians, as the crisis in Yemen continues to escalate.
Original Source: www.asiaone.com
