In a move that could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Yemen, the Biden administration is expected to redesignate the Iran-backed Houthis as a terrorist group. This comes after their removal from the Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) list in 2021. The decision comes in response to a series of recent attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea.
Officials have indicated that it is not yet clear if the Houthis will be placed in the Specially Designated Global Terrorist list. However, there are several sanction options that can be used as an alternative to a formal FTO finding. The Houthis have been responsible for launching numerous attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, citing Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in the Gaza Strip as their motivation.
In a recent incident, Houthi fighters launched anti-ship ballistic missiles from Yemen into the Red Sea, striking the Maltese flagged bulk carrier M/V Zografia. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the ship continued its transit. The attacks by the Houthis have disrupted global shipping, with approximately 2,000 ships since November being forced to divert thousands of miles to avoid the Red Sea. Additionally, Houthi militants have taken hostage mariners from more than 20 countries.
The Biden administration’s decision to redesignate the Houthis as a terrorist group represents a reversal of former President Trump’s decision to place them on the FTO list. The move was strongly opposed by human rights and humanitarian aid groups, who argued that it would worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in Yemen.
In addition to the Houthis, groups linked to Iran have also been launching attacks in Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, raising concerns about the potential for the conflict between Israel and Hamas to escalate into a regional crisis. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has emphasized the need to manage the situation and prevent further escalation.
The decision to redesignate the Houthis as a terrorist group comes as the Biden administration seeks to address the complex dynamics in the region and find a path towards de-escalation. The conflict in Yemen has had devastating humanitarian consequences, and the international community is closely watching the developments.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Biden administration will face the challenge of balancing its efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Yemen with the need to address the security threats posed by the Houthis. The designation of the Houthis as a terrorist group will have significant implications for U.S. policy towards Yemen and the wider region.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
