Reinstatement of 'Foreign Terrorist Organization' Designation for Yemen's Houthi Group

SOURCE www.npr.org
The State Department reinstated the 'foreign terrorist organization' designation for Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi group, following an order by President Donald Trump. The designation carries sanctions and penalties for those supporting the group.

Key Points

  • Houthis have launched attacks against commercial vessels and U.S. service members
  • Concerns over impact on aid delivery to Yemen led to revocation of designation by Biden administration
  • Saudi-led coalition backed by the U.S. entered war in Yemen to restore internationally recognized government

Pros

  • Disruption of Houthi financing through sanctions and penalties
  • Potential for up to $15 million reward for information leading to disruption of Houthi financing

Cons

  • Suspension of humanitarian operations by the United Nations in areas controlled by Houthi rebels
  • Detention of U.N. staffers and individuals associated with aid groups and civil society