Trump re-designates Houthis as terrorist organization, also known as Ansar Allah, reversing the Biden administration’s 2021 decision to remove the group’s FTO designation. Trump’s Executive Order, signed Wednesday, aims to counter the Houthis’ attacks on U.S. and allied interests in the Middle East and Red Sea.
Initially designated as an FTO by Trump in January 2021, the Houthis benefited from a policy reversal under President Joe Biden, who removed the designation shortly after taking office. However, the Biden administration reinstated their status as “Specially Designated Global Terrorists” (SDGT) in January 2024 following Houthi attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea.
The White House attributed the Houthis’ emboldened actions to what it called the Biden administration’s “weak policy.” The group has reportedly targeted U.S. Navy vessels dozens of times, launched attacks on civilian infrastructure in allied nations, and conducted over 100 assaults on commercial shipping in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.
Trump’s Executive Order directs Secretary of State Marco Rubio to complete the re-designation process within 30 days. Additionally, the order requires a review of United Nations partners, NGOs, and contractors operating in Yemen. Entities found to have financially supported or facilitated the Houthis will face consequences, including the termination of USAID partnerships.
The Houthis, an Iranian-backed militia, have controlled large portions of western Yemen, including the capital city of Sanaa, since 2014. They have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with Yemen’s internationally recognized government and a Saudi-led coalition.
According to the White House, the re-designation is part of Trump’s broader strategy to counter Houthi aggression. The administration aims to deprive the Houthis of resources, eliminate their operational capabilities, and enhance cooperation with regional partners to ensure maritime security and protect U.S. personnel and allies.
