Houthis Re-Designated as a Terrorist Group by Trump

In a decisive move to safeguard U.S. interests and international maritime security, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to re-designate Yemen’s Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). This action reverses a controversial decision by President Joe Biden in 2021 to remove the Iranian-backed group from the terrorist list.

The Houthis, a militant faction deeply aligned with Tehran, have escalated their attacks on international shipping and regional stability, particularly after the October 7 Hamas-led assault on Israel. The U.S. White House emphasized that the new designation underscores a commitment to working with regional allies to dismantle the Houthis’ operational capabilities and cut off their financial resources.

Since their delisting under Biden’s administration, the Houthis have:

• Launched over 100 attacks on international cargo ships, tankers, and naval vessels in the Red Sea.

• Targeted U.S. Navy personnel and disrupted global trade routes.

• Acted as a destabilizing proxy for Iran, enabling aggression against U.S. allies, including Israel and Saudi Arabia.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz praised the move, calling it a necessary correction to Biden’s “horrible decision” to remove the group’s terrorist designation. “The Houthis are terrorists who have for months launched attacks against the U.S. Navy, international shipping, and Israel. Enough!” Waltz declared on X.

The executive order goes beyond mere designation. Trump directed the Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Secretary of State to review all funding streams in Yemen. This includes scrutinizing U.N. partners and NGOs that have financially engaged with or overlooked Houthi aggression.

Organizations found complicit in supporting the Houthis directly or indirectly will be cut off from U.S. funding. This approach ensures accountability and sends a clear message that American resources will not subsidize terror or its enablers.

The reinstatement of the FTO status is not just symbolic; it’s a signal of renewed American resolve to confront terrorism and protect critical maritime zones like the Red Sea. This region, vital for global trade, has been under increasing threat due to the Houthis' unchecked aggression under the Biden administration's leniency.

Trump’s decision reflects a stark contrast in leadership styles and priorities, showcasing his determination to place American safety and global stability above appeasement.

If you value strong leadership and America-first policies, share this article and stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter.