The US has designated Yemen’s Houthis as a “foreign terrorist organisation” due to their threats to regional security and global maritime trade. While the move aims to impose economic penalties on the Houthis, it raises concerns about exacerbating Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, impacting millions in need. Experts warn it could worsen the security situation in the region.
On March 4, 2025, the US State Department announced the implementation of the designation of Yemen’s Houthi movement as a “foreign terrorist organisation.” This action follows President Donald Trump’s earlier call to classify the Houthis in this manner. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the activities of the Houthis pose a significant threat to American civilians, regional allies, and the security of global maritime trade.
Rubio further stated, “The United States will not tolerate any country engaging with terrorist organisations like the Houthis in the name of practising legitimate international business.” However, this designation has sparked concerns regarding its potential impact on regional security and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Humanitarian organizations fear that importers may face US sanctions if supplies inadvertently fall into the hands of the Houthis.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric remarked, “A designation like this must be coupled with appropriate safeguards and reassurances, both humanitarian assistance and the ability of civilians to commercially access central goods and services.” He also highlighted that approximately 19 million Yemenis are in dire need of life-saving assistance, and that much of this aid is secured through the private sector.
Jakob Larsen, chief safety and security officer at BIMCO, warned that the new designation could further deteriorate the already fragile security situation in the region. This action implements the January decision to re-designate the Houthis as a terrorist organization in response to their attacks on commercial shipping and US warships in the Red Sea.
The Houthis, controlling most of Yemen, have conducted over 100 attacks since November 2023, citing solidarity with Palestinians amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. They have also executed missile and drone strikes targeting Israel. The leader of the Houthis indicated that they would monitor ceasefire developments closely and resume strikes if the ceasefire was violated.
These violent actions have disrupted global trade, forcing shipping firms to divert routes, resulting in longer and more costly journeys. Larsen commented that traffic patterns have remained largely the same and that given the instability of the Gaza ceasefire, the security threat continues to increase.
Former President Joe Biden initially withdrew Trump’s terrorist designations to alleviate humanitarian concerns. However, following incidents in the Red Sea, he later designated the group as a “Specially Designated Global Terrorist” organization. Yet, his administration chose not to impose the stricter FTO designation until now.
The US designation of Yemen’s Houthis as a “foreign terrorist organisation” represents a significant escalation in diplomatic measures aimed at curtailing the group’s violent activities. Despite intentions to enhance security, this classification raises urgent humanitarian concerns that could severely impact the already dire conditions for millions in Yemen. Balancing security with humanitarian needs will be paramount as regional dynamics evolve in the wake of this designation.
Original Source: www.asiaone.com
