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Trump Re-Designates Houthis as Terrorists, Effective in 30 Days, Ending USAID Cooperation

Jan 24, 2025, 08:58 AM

The U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has re-designated Yemen's Ansarullah movement, also known as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). This move, announced shortly after Trump assumed office, reverses the decision made by the Biden administration to delist the group in 2021. The designation, set to take effect within 30 days, imposes sanctions, travel bans, and restrictions on entities providing material support to the group. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have dismissed the label, calling it a badge of honor and accusing the U.S. of supporting Israeli policies in Palestine. The group also stated that the designation will not affect its operations, as it has no financial ties or assets in the U.S. The internationally recognized Yemeni government welcomed the decision, viewing it as a step to curb Iran’s influence in the region. USAID is expected to terminate cooperation with organizations linked to the Houthis. Critics, however, argue that the move could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Yemen and escalate tensions in the Middle East. The Houthis have also reaffirmed their support for Palestinian resistance.