Washington: The US State Department has officially designated Yemen's Houthi group, known as Ansar Allah, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). This decision was announced on Tuesday and marks a significant step in the US's foreign policy towards the Middle East.

According to Anadolu Agency, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed the move as a fulfillment of a promise made by President Donald Trump upon taking office. Rubio stated, "Today, the State Department is fulfilling one of President Trump's first promises upon taking office. The Houthis' activities threaten the security of American civilians and personnel in the Middle East, the safety of our closest regional partners, and the stability of global maritime trade."

The designation follows an executive order by President Trump on January 22, which called for the consideration of the Houthis for FTO status. Rubio made it clear that the US would not tolerate any engagement with terrorist organizations like the Houthis under the guise of legitimate international business practices.

The Houthis have been known for their drone and missile attacks on Israeli-linked cargo ships in the Red Sea. These actions are in solidarity with the Gaza Strip, where recent conflicts have resulted in significant casualties, with more than 48,300 victims reported killed in Israel's attacks since October 7, 2023.