US Redesignates Yemen’s Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
The United States has labeled Yemen’s Houthi movement as a “foreign terrorist” organization, reinstating previous sanctions that target support for the group. This measure follows concerns about threats to US personnel and maritime trade. The designation represents a return to stricter policies initiated by the prior administration after a temporary reversal by President Biden due to humanitarian concerns.
The United States has officially designated Yemen’s Houthi movement, formally known as Ansar Allah, as a “foreign terrorist” organization. This announcement, made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, reinstates the previous designation which includes sanctions and penalties against individuals providing any material support to the Houthis. This designation comes in response to the group’s threats towards American civilians and military personnel, as well as the stability of global maritime trade.
The decision to redesignate the Houthis was initially set in motion by former President Donald Trump in January 2021. In the final days of his administration, Trump categorized the group as a “foreign terrorist” organization and a “specially designated global terrorist” (SDGT) entity. However, the Biden administration swiftly reversed this designation in an attempt to address the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
The White House has indicated that the previous administration’s lenient policy led to increased aggressions by the Houthis, including repeated attacks on US Navy warships and commercial vessels, as well as assaults on civilian infrastructures in allied nations. The resurgence of this designation emphasizes a commitment under President Trump’s policies to collaborate with regional partners to undermine Houthi operations and safeguard maritime shipping in the Red Sea.
In conclusion, the US reinstatement of the Houthi movement as a foreign terrorist organization underscores a shift back to stricter measures following a brief suspension under the Biden administration. This decision is framed by concerns regarding the security of American forces and the protection of international trade against Houthi aggression. The US aims to work closely with regional allies to neutralize the threats posed by the Houthis.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
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