Designation of Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization
This executive order designates Ansar Allah (also known as the Houthis) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The designating process follows the standard statutory framework (8 U.S.C. 1189) and is backed by a U.S. policy goal to weaken Ansar Allah’s capabilities, cut off its resources, and stop its attacks on U.S. personnel, U.S. partners, and maritime shipping in the Red Sea. The order explicitly notes Iranian support through the IRGC-Quds Force and links the Houthis’ actions to threats to American civilians, regional partners, and global trade. A key feature of the order is a post-designation review of U.S. aid partners and contractors in Yemen who may have relationships with Ansar Allah. If such relationships exist, the Administration is instructed to take appropriate actions, including terminating USAID-funded projects or contracts. The document also preserves general government authorities and notes that the order does not create new rights or benefits in law.
Key Points
- 1Designation of Ansar Allah as a Foreign Terrorist Organization under 8 U.S.C. 1189, with a stated purpose to curb its terrorist activities and align with INA procedures.
- 2Implementation timeline: within 30 days, the Secretary of State (after coordination with the DNI and Treasury) must submit a designation report to the President; within 15 days after the report, the Secretary of State must act to designate the group as an FTO.
- 3Post-designation review of USAID-related entities: the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator will review UN partners, NGOs, and contractors involved with Yemen operations to identify any connections to Ansar Allah (payments to the group or inadequate documentation of abuses).
- 4Consequence for USAID projects: the Administrator of USAID shall terminate identified programs, grants, or contracts as appropriate.
- 5General provisions: the order does not impair existing authorities, must be implemented in compliance with law and available appropriations, and does not create enforceable rights.