The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen have been re-designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Secretary of State. This move fulfills one of President Donald Trump’s initial promises upon taking office. The decision highlights the U.S. commitment to combating terrorism, especially given the group’s ongoing activities that threaten American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, as well as global maritime security.
Previously, the Houthis had been designated as a foreign terrorist organization during Trump’s first term, but President Joe Biden reversed the decision in 2021 to facilitate humanitarian aid to Yemen. However, this new designation under the current administration emphasizes the U.S. stance on security and its policy to curb support for terrorist organizations.
The Houthis have been responsible for numerous attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, including over 100 assaults following the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023. The U.S. military has had to bolster its presence in the region, defending warships and commercial vessels against these threats.
In addition to these maritime threats, Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi recently declared military action against the U.S. and Israel following suggestions to remove Palestinians from Gaza.
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