New Delhi: In a significant policy shift, the United States is poised to reinstate the classification of Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels as a specially designated global terrorist entity, reversing the decision made in early 2021. This move, set to be officially announced on Wednesday, follows a series of recent attacks by the Houthi group on shipping and military vessels in the Red Sea.Strikes against Houthi-controlled areasThe US military, in response to the escalating threat posed by the Houthis, conducted strikes in Yemen, targeting four anti-ship missiles deemed ready for launch from Houthi-controlled territories. These strikes, occurring for the third time within a week, aimed to neutralize an imminent danger to both merchant and US Navy ships navigating the region.Houthis attack on shipping lanesThe Houthi rebels have been actively targeting merchant vessels in the Red Sea, a critical shipping lane that facilitates up to 12 percent of global trade. In a recent incident, the rebels reportedly launched an anti-ship ballistic missile into international shipping lanes, resulting in a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier being hit but remaining seaworthy.Multinational naval task forceResponding to the heightened threat, the United States established a multinational naval task force last month, dedicated to safeguarding Red Sea shipping from Houthi attacks. The rebels actions have posed a risk to a vital transit route, prompting global efforts to ensure the security of maritime trade.Reversal policy, geopolitical implicationsThe decision to reinstate the terrorist group designation for the Houthis marks a reversal of the policy shift initiated by President Joe Biden in 2021. The original designation, made during the final days of the Trump administration, was swiftly overturned by President Biden, citing concerns about complicating humanitarian efforts in war-torn Yemen.Global trade impact after targeted strikesIn the past week, the United States and Britain jointly targeted nearly 30 sites in Yemen, employing over 150 munitions. Additional strikes targeted a Houthi radar site, described as a follow-on action related to the preceding operations. These measures aim to address the escalating threats posed by the Houthi rebels.
