Designation of Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
Jan 31, 2025
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Jan 22, 2025
Published on: Jan 31, 2025
Jan 31, 2025
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Jan 22, 2025
Published on: Jan 31, 2025
Summary
Directs the government to consider naming Ansar Allah a terrorist group to stop their attacks on ships and people in the Middle East.
What problem does this solve?
The Houthi group, Ansar Allah, has repeatedly attacked U.S. military ships, civilian ships, and U.S. partners, which threatens trade and safety. This order begins the process of officially calling them a terrorist group, which helps cut off their resources and stop their attacks.
What does this order do?
Initiates terrorist designation process
Orders the Secretary of State to begin the process of officially naming Ansar Allah, also known as the Houthis, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
Requires a report on designation
Mandates the Secretary of State, with intelligence and treasury officials, to give the President a report about the designation within 30 days.
Reviews aid partners in Yemen
Requires a review of all U.S. aid partners in Yemen after the designation to find any that have paid or supported Ansar Allah.
Cuts funding to certain aid groups
Directs the head of USAID to end projects, grants, or contracts with any aid groups found to have inappropriate ties to Ansar Allah.
Who does this affect?
- Ansar Allah (the Houthis)
- U.S. military personnel in the Middle East
- International shipping companies
What is the real world impact?
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Protects U.S. personnel and allies
Aims to stop attacks on U.S. Navy ships and regional partners like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel by cutting off the Houthis' resources.
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Secures global trade routes
Responds to over 100 attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, which have killed sailors and raised global prices by forcing ships to take longer routes.
When does this start?
This order sets multiple deadlines for government action, starting from January 22, 2025.
Report on terrorist designation
Within 30 days of the order (by February 21, 2025), the Secretary of State must submit a report to the President about designating Ansar Allah as a terrorist group.
Action on designation
Within 15 days after the report is submitted, the Secretary of State must take all appropriate action regarding the designation.