U.S. State Department Classifies Iran-Backed Houthis as Foreign Terrorist Organization
The State Department has designated Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization, reaffirming a previous executive order by President Trump. This designation aims to combat terrorism effectively and limit support for such groups. Secretary of State Rubio noted the group’s threats to U.S. personnel and regional partners, while reflecting on the criticisms of previous administration policies regarding the Houthis.
On Tuesday, the State Department formally designated the Iran-backed Houthis from Yemen as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO), reinforcing President Donald Trump’s prior executive order from January. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that these terrorist designations are vital in combating terrorism and curbing support for related activities, stating that the United States “will not tolerate” relationships with groups like the Houthis.
The designation of the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization underscores a renewed commitment by the Trump administration to confront terrorism and protect U.S. interests in the Middle East. The Biden administration had reversed this designation in early 2021, highlighting ongoing policy differences between the two administrations regarding the Houthis and their impact on regional stability.
Original Source: freebeacon.com
