Trump Admin’s Plan to Re-Label Houthis as Foreign Terrorist Organization

(ProsperNews.net) – The Trump administration is making a strategic move to re-designate the Houthi movement in Yemen as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, aiming to curb Iran’s influence in the region.

At a Glance

President Trump signs an Executive Order to label Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO).
The initial designation occurred in January 2021 but was reversed by the Biden administration.
This move aims to cut off Houthi resources and align U.S. policy with the Yemeni government.
The designation seeks to impose economic penalties and shift humanitarian aid.

Trump’s Decision on Houthi Designation

President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order to re-designate the Iranian-backed Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The re-designation is part of a broader strategy to contain Iran’s influence in the Middle East. Initially selected as an FTO in January 2021, this classification was removed by President Biden shortly after he took office.

Ending the FTO status has had significant consequences. Following the reversal, Houthi attacks on U.S. Navy ships, civilian infrastructure in partner nations, and commercial vessels in the Bab al-Mandeb have increased. The offensive actions have prompted the reevaluation and subsequent recommendation for re-designation.

Waltz also was a signatory on a letter earlier this year threatening "fast track legislative options to hold Qatar accountable" if U.S. hostages weren't released quickly. https://t.co/hbSoW9gdq6 https://t.co/BmW1UACXdM

— Marc Rod (@marcrod97) November 12, 2024

Strategic Implications for U.S. and Allies

Secretary of State is required to recommend the re-designation within 30 days of the order. This action aligns with the administration’s goal to weaken the Houthis by depriving them of resources and preventing further attacks. The administration aims to collaborate with regional partners to diminish the Houthis’ operational capabilities and sustain peace efforts in Yemen.

The move also mandates a review of U.S. collaborations with United Nations partners, non-governmental organizations, and contractors in Yemen by USAID and the Secretary of State. USAID intends to disengage from entities financially supporting the Houthis, reinforcing America’s dedication to a stronger Middle Eastern partnership.

Combating Iran’s Proxy Influence

The Houthis, backed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, have continued attacks on civilian airports in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and fired over 300 projectiles at Israel since October 2023. The Executive Order seeks to thwart these aggressive maneuvers by the Houthis that threaten not only American security but also that of regional partners and the global maritime trade system.

The Executive Order’s review process led by USAID and the Secretary of State signifies the administration’s commitment to addressing threats with concrete actions, ensuring American security remains paramount.