US Designates Yemen’s Houthi Rebels as Terrorists amid Red Sea Attacks

The United States has re-designated Yemen’s Huthi rebels as a terrorist entity due to their repeated attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea. The move comes after the Huthis targeted merchant vessels and announced their intention to continue these attacks in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that the Huthis must be held accountable for their actions, but emphasized the need to protect Yemeni civilians. The 30-day implementation delay will allow the US government to conduct outreach to stakeholders and aid providers to ensure the continued flow of humanitarian assistance and critical commodities. This terrorist designation is part of the US strategy to put pressure on the Huthis, which also includes military action and the establishment of an international coalition to protect shipping. The Huthis, however, have vowed to persist with their attacks, targeting Israeli ships and those heading towards occupied Palestine. The US military has already destroyed anti-ship missiles in Yemen and launched airstrikes against the rebels. The removal of the Huthis’ terrorist designation in 2021 was a response to concerns from aid groups, but the current re-designation is seen as providing better flexibility to safeguard humanitarian assistance and the well-being of the Yemeni people. The US will reevaluate the designation if the Huthis cease their attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.