Trump Redesignates Houthi Rebels as Foreign Terrorist Organization

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In a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to reclassify Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels as a "foreign terrorist organization." This action reverses a decision made by former President Joe Biden, who lifted that designation upon taking office in 2021.

During Biden's presidency, the Houthis were later categorized as a "specially designated global terrorist" entity, a designation that permitted humanitarian aid to continue flowing into Yemen, which has been ravaged by conflict. The reclassification by Trump signifies a more aggressive stance towards the Houthis amid ongoing tensions in the region.

The announcement was made by the White House on Wednesday, January 23, 2025. Analysts suggest that this move could complicate efforts to provide humanitarian assistance in Yemen, where millions of people are in need of aid. The Houthi rebels have been involved in a prolonged conflict against the Yemeni government and its allies, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the country.

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