# Plain Language Summary: Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act

This bill directs the U.S. government to officially label Ansarallah (commonly known as the Houthis, a militant group based in Yemen) as a foreign terrorist organization and impose financial sanctions against them. The Secretary of State has 90 days after the bill passes to make this designation, and the President has the same timeframe to freeze any assets or financial accounts connected to the group and ban American companies and individuals from doing business with them. The sanctions would also apply to anyone who works for, owns, or controls businesses connected to Ansarallah.

The bill's supporters point to several incidents they say justify this action. They cite reports that Iran has supplied the Houthis with advanced weapons and military advisers, and they reference drone attacks the group allegedly launched against Saudi Arabian oil facilities in 2021. The bill also notes that the Trump administration had previously designated Ansarallah as a terrorist organization in January 2021, but the Biden administration revoked that designation in February 2021, which prompted lawmakers to introduce this bill to reinstate it.

For most Americans, this bill would have limited direct impact on daily life. However, it could affect international business dealings, humanitarian aid efforts in Yemen, and diplomatic relations in the Middle East. The practical effect would be to make it illegal for American banks, companies, and individuals to transfer money to or conduct business with the Houthis or their affiliates. This could complicate efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to Yemen, where the Houthis control significant territory, since organizations would need special government permission to operate there.

Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act

Clyde, Andrew S.

Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act This bill requires the Department of State to designate Ansarallah as a foreign terrorist organization and the President to impose property- and visa-blocking sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and any foreign person who is a member, agent, or affiliate of, or owned or controlled by Ansarallah.