Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:19pm on 17 Jan 2024,Wednesday International
The Biden administration announces plans to re-designate Yemen's Houthi rebels as "global terrorists," reversing a 2021 decision. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cites ongoing Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. The move requires freezing Houthi funds and bans their members from the US. The earlier decision, revoked due to humanitarian concerns, faced criticism for potential famine repercussions. The new designation, effective in 30 days, aims to curb Houthi assaults while ensuring humanitarian aid flow. Officials stress exemptions to limit harm to Yemeni civilians. Recent airstrikes by the US and allies respond to Houthi attacks escalating since November.