Summary

Summary of Executive Order on Ansar Allah

Purpose

• The executive order initiates the process to designate Ansar Allah (Houthis) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization under U.S. law.

Background

• Ansar Allah is supported by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force.
• The group has engaged in attacks targeting U.S. Navy vessels and has attacked civilian infrastructure since its control of Yemeni population centers in 2014-2015.
• Notable actions include missile strikes on civilian airports in Saudi Arabia and multiple attacks on Israel, impacting the safety of American personnel and global maritime trade.

Actions Taken

• Report Submission: The Secretary of State is required to submit a report on the designation within 30 days, consulting with the Director of National Intelligence and Secretary of the Treasury.
• Designation Process: Actions to officially designate Ansar Allah as a terrorist organization are to be completed within 15 days post-report submission.
• Review of Partnerships: After designation, a review of U.N. partners and NGOs working with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will be conducted to identify any connections with Ansar Allah.
• Project Termination: USAID will terminate identified projects or grants that have worked with Ansar Allah or criticized counter-efforts without sufficient documentation.

Expected Impact

• The order aims to reduce the operational capabilities of Ansar Allah and enhance the safety of U.S. personnel and allies in the region.
• It seeks to stabilize maritime trade routes and reduce threats to international shipping.

General Provisions

• The order does not affect existing authorities or create enforceable rights against the U.S. government or its entities.