In a recent development, the Biden administration announced the designation of Iran-backed Houthi rebels as specially designated global terrorists, a step down from their previous classification as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO) during the Trump administration. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions in the Red Sea, where the Houthi rebels have been involved in attacks on commercial ships, including the seizure of a cargo ship which is now being used as a recruitment tool.
While both designations hold the rebels accountable for their actions, there are notable differences between them. Unlike the FTO designation, the new classification does not include civil liability for victims and has no immigration restrictions. As a result, it is highly unlikely that any Houthi operative applying for a visa to travel to the United States will have their application approved.
The Houthi rebels have been a source of concern for Yemen's neighboring country, Saudi Arabia. Six years ago, Saudi Arabia deployed artillery along the Yemeni border to fend off missile attacks. The Houthi rebels have not only targeted military installations but also civilian areas, such as schools and hospitals. Despite experiencing attacks in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia has adopted a restrained approach, potentially indicating a desire for regional stabilization and economic development in the entire region.
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is currently absent from the Pentagon as he continues to recover at home. He is undergoing physical therapy as part of his recuperation. In a recent unsettling development, another U.S.-owned vessel was hit off the coast of Yemen, marking the second such incident in the past 48 hours. Fortunately, there were no injuries, only minor damage, and the ship remains seaworthy, according to a statement from CENTCOM.
The decision to designate the Houthi rebels as specially designated global terrorists reflects the Biden administration's approach to addressing their actions. While the previous FTO designation carried certain limitations in terms of humanitarian assistance, the new classification allows for greater flexibility. However, it does not offer the same civil liability provisions for victims and does not impose immigration restrictions on Houthi operatives.
As the situation in the Red Sea continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the dynamics between the Houthi rebels, Yemen, and neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia. With Secretary Austin's ongoing recovery and the recent incident involving a U.S.-owned vessel, the need for stability and security in the region becomes increasingly paramount. The international community will closely monitor the actions and response of all parties involved to ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected by this ongoing conflict.
