The U.S. has designated Yemen’s Houthi rebels as a terrorist organization to increase pressure on the group deemed destabilizing to regional and global interests. This move reinstates sanctions and reflects concerns about the Houthis’ recent maritime attacks. The designation aims to enhance U.S. national security and cut off support for armed groups operating unlawfully.

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 Donald Trump. This action aims to amplify pressure on the Iranian-backed group, which is accused of undermining regional stability and jeopardizing U.S. interests. Specifically, the Houthis have escalated their attacks on commercial vessels and U.S. military forces in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, raising significant concerns in Washington.

The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, indicated that the reinstatement of this designation includes severe sanctions for individuals providing material support to the Houthis. Since the escalation of attacks, particularly on U.S.-flagged vessels, the U.S. administration has made it clear that maintaining connections with terrorist-designated groups under the guise of legitimate trade will not be tolerated. The Trump administration seeks to enhance its national security policy with this designation, viewing the Houthis as an increasing threat.

According to the State Department, terrorism classifications serve as crucial instruments for cutting off funding and support to illegal armed factions. The Houthi rebels, engaged in conflict since 2014 against Yemen’s internationally recognized government, have attacked over 100 merchant vessels since October 2023, particularly during the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. They claimed they would limit attacks to Israeli-affiliated ships under a ceasefire but warned that broader hostilities could resume.

This designation follows a previous classification by the Trump administration, which was rescinded by President Joe Biden’s administration due to concerns over its impact on humanitarian aid to Yemen, a nation in dire need. The United Nations has recently suspended operations in Houthi-controlled areas after the detention of several UN officials, with numerous humanitarian workers being detained in recent months, further complicating aid efforts in the region.

The U.S. designation of Yemen’s Houthi rebels as a terrorist organization underlines a significant shift in American policy aimed at countering destabilizing actions in the region. This measure reinforces sanctions against the group, amid ongoing concerns regarding maritime security and humanitarian aid. The situation continues to evolve, as the conflict in Yemen remains critical, and the implications of these decisions will likely affect regional stability and international relations.

Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il

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