According to the Houthis of Yemen, they retaliated against the United States' decision to re-designate them as "global terrorists" by attacking a US-owned vessel in the Red Sea. Anxieties in the area are likely to rise in response to this US approach.
Yemen Houthis Targets US-Owned Vessel in the Red Sea Amid Designation Controversy
Houthis allege a successful strike on the "Genco Picardy" bulk carrier, asserting a direct hit with missiles. The incident follows the US announcement of re-designating the group, leading to financial freezes and travel bans.
Red Sea Attacks and Israel's Operation in Gaza
Houthis' actions in the Red Sea are seen as a retaliation to Israel's military operation in Gaza. The UK and US conducted airstrikes earlier to deter Houthi attacks on vessels in the Red Sea.
US Response and Financial Implications
The US National Security Advisor justifies the re-designation as a response to Houthi attacks on commercial shipping. This decision reverses a prior move by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and includes freezing funds and banning Houthi members from the US.
Conditions for Re-Evaluation
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlights that the re-evaluation of the terrorist designation depends on Houthi actions. Ceasing attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden could prompt a reconsideration.
Historical Context
Due to humanitarian concerns, Secretary Blinken reversed the Trump administration's previous designation of the Houthis as terrorists in 2021. The recent move is explained as a response to unacceptable Houthi attacks on commercial shipping.
Humanitarian Exemptions
Officials emphasize that the re-designation includes exemptions to ensure the flow of humanitarian aid into Yemen. Sullivan emphasizes the need to prevent the Yemeni people from paying the price for Houthi actions.
Houthi Campaign and International Response
Houthis initiated attacks on merchant vessels in November, responding to Israel's actions in Gaza. The US and UK launched air strikes against Houthi targets in January, with support from other nations, in response to continued attacks in the Red Sea.
US Denial of Air Campaign Failure
Biden administration officials deny that the terrorist designation implies a failure of the air campaign. They position sanctions as part of a broader effort to deter Houthi attacks.
Yemen's Ongoing Crisis
Yemen has faced devastation from a civil war since 2015, involving Houthi control, international intervention, and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The recent events add complexity to an already dire situation.