The United States has reclassified the Houthi militant group as a terrorist organization, reinstating the designation of a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT).
Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor, communicated in a statement that this decision is prompted by the ongoing threats and attacks by the Houthis on both “United States military forces and international maritime vessels operating in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.”
Sullivan emphasized that the primary objective of this reclassification is to hinder the flow of terrorist funding to the Houthis, thereby restricting their access to financial markets and holding them accountable for their aggressive actions.
He made it clear that the US will promptly review and reconsider this designation if the Houthi attacks cease. This reclassification is scheduled to be implemented in 30 days, allowing the US to establish comprehensive humanitarian exemptions.
Sullivan assured that these measures are designed to specifically target the Houthis and not the general population of Yemen. In a call with reporters, a senior administration official characterized the Houthi attacks on international shipping as a clear act of terrorism, violating international law and posing a substantial threat to lives and global commerce.
The official underscored the impact of these attacks on the delivery of humanitarian aid. The overarching goal of the US action, as outlined by the official, is to encourage the Houthis to de-escalate and demonstrate positive changes in their behavior.
Additionally, the Treasury Department is expected to issue five “broad general licenses” that will authorize transactions related to food, medicine, and medical devices.
