Sanaa, Yemen – The Biden administration has re-designated the Houthis as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) entity. This move comes as the Yemen-based militia continues its attacks, particularly in the Red Sea region. The administration’s decision aims to deter the Houthis from further acts of aggression. It is part of a series of actions taken by the United States against the Iranian-backed group, raising concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict in the Middle East.
Administration officials have emphasized that the SDGT designation is a response to the Houthis’ acts of terrorism, which not only violate international law but also pose a significant threat to lives and global commerce. The designation had been removed in February 2021, as the Trump administration sought to address the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen, allowing for the delivery of crucial assistance to the Yemeni people.
However, mounting pressure on the Biden administration, especially in light of recent attacks in the Red Sea, has prompted the re-imposition of the SDGT designation. The Houthis claim that their attacks are in retaliation for the Israeli military offensive in Gaza. These attacks have resulted in the closure of a major trade route, impacting the global economy.
It is important to note that the administration did not re-list the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO). While both designations trigger economic sanctions, only the FTO designation imposes a travel ban on group members and authorizes sanctions on those who provide “material support” to the designated group.
Administration officials have stated that the SDGT designation is the appropriate tool to pressure the Houthis at this time. They believe it allows for better flexibility in targeting the group while minimizing the risk to humanitarian aid. To ensure that action primarily impacts the Houthis and not the people of Yemen, the designation will not take effect for 30 days. During this period, the administration plans to engage with organizations involved in humanitarian aid to Yemen, considering the challenges faced by the 21.6 million people in need of assistance.
The United States and the United Kingdom have recently launched strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. President Biden stated that these strikes were a direct response to the Houthis’ attacks on international maritime vessels in the Red Sea. Additional strikes have been carried out in subsequent days. Administration officials assert that these actions are defensive in nature and do not seek escalation.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the attacks on international commerce and shipping are not intended as an attack on Israel or the United States. He highlighted the international condemnation of the Houthis’ actions and reiterated the goal of getting them to stop. Efforts are being made daily to prevent escalation in the Red Sea region.
The re-designation of the Houthis as an SDGT entity reflects the Biden administration’s commitment to address their acts of terrorism and protect lives and global commerce. It marks a delicate balance between targeting the Houthis and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Yemen.