US Labels Yemen’s Houthis as a ‘Foreign Terrorist’ Organization, Escalating Regional Tensions

The US Department of State has designated Yemen’s Houthi movement, known as Ansar Allah, as a “foreign terrorist” organization. This announcement was made on March 4, 2025, by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized the threat posed by the Houthis to American civilians and regional stability.

The designation reinstates sanctions against individuals providing material support to the group, a move initially initiated by former President Donald Trump in January 2021 but reversed by President Joe Biden’s administration shortly after taking office.

The Houthis have been involved in a prolonged conflict in Yemen, which has drawn international attention due to its humanitarian implications. The US government argues that their activities have escalated threats against US personnel and allies in the Middle East, as well as global maritime trade routes.

Key points regarding the Houthi designation include:

• The Houthis have attacked US Navy warships and commercial vessels numerous times.
• Sanctions will apply to any entities providing material support to the Houthis.
• The US aims to cooperate with regional partners to diminish the Houthis’ operational capabilities.

In response to the previous administration’s policies, the Biden administration had temporarily lifted the designation, citing the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen. However, the current administration has reversed this stance, stating that the Houthis’ actions have worsened security conditions for US interests and allies.

This recent designation underscores the US commitment to countering threats from groups like the Houthis and reflects a shift back to a more hardline approach in US foreign policy concerning Yemen.