In a latest report, US President Joe Biden labeled the Yemen-based Houthis as a "terrorist" group, expressing his firm belief during a visit to a small business in Pennsylvania. This declaration comes on the heels of joint military strikes carried out by the US and UK in Yemen, responding to a series of attacks by the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.
Biden, responding to a question, affirmed, "I think they are," when asked if he considers the Houthis a terrorist group. He emphasized that the US, in collaboration with its allies, would respond to the Houthis if their provocative actions persist.
It's noteworthy that the Biden administration had previously removed the designation of the Houthis as a "Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO)" and "Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT)" in 2021. This decision reversed the classification imposed by former President Donald Trump.
The military strikes in Yemen occurred after the Houthi group targeted Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, expressing solidarity with the people of Gaza. The Palestinian resistance group, Hamas, had faced Israeli attacks since October 7, resulting in substantial casualties and widespread destruction.
Addressing concerns about potential conflict escalation, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby clarified that the US is not seeking confrontation with Iran. The Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea have disrupted the flow of trade through this vital maritime route, leading to delays in shipments and increased transportation costs. The situation remains tense as the international community monitors developments in the region.
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