The U.S. has designated Yemen’s Houthi rebels as a terrorist organization under Executive Order 14175, seeking to increase pressure on the group, accused of destabilizing the region. The designation carries sanctions for supporters, as the Houthis intensify attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. The decision follows previous attempts to classify the group, revoked by President Biden due to humanitarian concerns. The conflict, ongoing since 2014, complicates Yemen’s humanitarian crisis.
The United States has designated the Yemeni Houthi rebels, officially known as Ansarallah, as a foreign terrorist organization. This decision, made by the U.S. State Department, aligns with former President Donald Trump’s promise upon taking office and aims to increase pressure on the Iranian-backed group accused of destabilizing the region and threatening U.S. interests.
In accordance with Executive Order 14175, which was signed by Trump, the Houthis’ actions are deemed a threat to the safety of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East. It also asserts that their activities compromise the stability of U.S. allies and affect global maritime trade. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the reinstatement of this designation, which imposes sanctions on those providing material support to the group.
Since 2023, the Houthis have intensified attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting commercial vessels and U.S. military forces. They have particularly focused on vessels with U.S. flags and those of allied nations while notably avoiding attacks on Chinese-flagged ships, concerning Washington. The U.S. administration has warned that it will not accept any country maintaining links with designated terrorist organizations under the guise of legitimate trade.
The Trump administration emphasizes that this designation aims to bolster national security and address the perceived growing threats in the region. Terrorism classifications are essential for severing financial support and resources from illegal armed groups.
Since the onset of the war in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have attacked over 100 merchant vessels in crucial trade routes using missiles and drones. They initially declared a ceasefire but warned of potential resumption of attacks if circumstances necessitate.
While the Trump administration had classified the Houthis as terrorists, the designation was later revoked by President Joe Biden’s administration due to humanitarian concerns, as this decision risked exacerbating Yemen’s dire humanitarian crisis. Recently, the United Nations suspended operations in areas controlled by the Houthis following the detention of its officials, highlighting ongoing tensions.
The Houthis have been fighting Yemen’s internationally recognized government, supported by a Saudi-led coalition, since seizing control of Sanaa in 2014, complicating the humanitarian situation in Yemen further.
The designation of the Houthis as a terrorist organization by the United States underscores significant political and security concerns regarding the group’s activities. This decision seeks to enhance national security, pressure the rebels, and diminish their operational capacity. The ongoing tensions and humanitarian implications highlight the complex dynamics within Yemen’s conflicts and the challenges faced by international aid efforts.
Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il
