In a significant shift from current U.S. policy, President Biden has classified Iran-backed Houthi rebels as terrorists. This comes as the Houthi rebels have responded to yesterday's airstrikes by launching new attacks in Yemen. Pentagon officials anticipate further retaliation for the strikes, as evidenced by the rebels firing at least one ballistic missile towards shipping lanes.
President Biden's designation of the Houthi rebels as terrorists contradicts the assessment he made while on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania. At that time, he expressed a different stance and even halted American support for the Saudi fight against the Houthis almost three years ago. Additionally, the State Department removed the Houthis from the list of terror groups for humanitarian reasons. Although there has been no official decision regarding the relisting of the Houthis as a terror group, the President appears to have made up his mind.
The airstrikes launched by the U.S. and U.K. targeted 60 locations across 16 Houthi-controlled spots in Yemen. These strikes have been met with both praise and criticism. Turkey's President Erdogan claims that the U.S. is attempting to turn the Red Sea into a 'sea of blood.' On the other hand, Republicans have commended the Biden administration for taking action, while some Democrats, including Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, argue that the strikes violate the Constitution, as military action should be authorized by Congress.
Concerns about the timing and potential consequences of these airstrikes have also arisen. Amidst the airstrikes, the Defense Secretary monitored the situation closely from the hospital, drawing gentle criticism for potentially misleading the President. Furthermore, analysts suggest that the strikes may provoke further attacks and escalate the conflict in Yemen.
The situation remains fluid, and tensions between the U.S., Iran, and the Houthi rebels persist. President Biden's decision to classify the Houthi rebels as terrorists indicates a shift in his approach towards Yemen. While the President faces criticism from some members of his own party for not seeking congressional authorization for the strikes, he maintains that they were necessary and justified.
As the dust settles from these airstrikes, the international community watches closely for any further developments and potential ramifications. The conflict in Yemen continues to pose significant challenges, and it remains to be seen how this shift in U.S. policy will shape future actions and diplomatic efforts in the region.
