US President Donald Trump has decided to once again classify Yemen's Houthi rebels as a “foreign terrorist organization”, a measure announced by the White House on Wednesday. This decision reverses the policy adopted by his predecessor Joe Biden, who withdrew this qualification in 2020, before imposing a less strict designation in order to preserve humanitarian aid in the war-ravaged country.
Supported by Iran, the Houthis have been carrying out attacks on ships since November 2023, disrupting global maritime trade. These actions, justified by the group as an act of solidarity with the Palestinians in the context of the war in Gaza, led the United States to intensify its military presence in the region. “The activities of the Houthis threaten the security of American civilians and military personnel, as well as the stability of international trade,” underlines the presidential decree.
First step for Secretary of State Marco Rubio
On another front, the new Trump administration is taking a tough stance toward Beijing. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced China's “dangerous and destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea, while reaffirming US support for the Philippines, a strategic ally in the region. During an interview with his Philippine counterpart Enrique Manalo, Marco Rubio recalled the importance of the mutual defense treaty between the two nations. “China’s behavior undermines regional peace and stability and is not in accordance with international law,” he said.
Tensions around this strategic sea route, which China claims almost entirely despite an international decision invalidating these claims, continue to raise concerns. Regular confrontations with the Philippines fuel fears of a military escalation involving the United States.
-Reaffirmed support for Israel
At the same time, the Trump administration has reaffirmed its support for Israel. During a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Marco Rubio insisted on the importance of the partnership between the two countries, calling this support a “top priority” for Donald Trump. Marco Rubio also welcomed Israel's progress against Hamas and Hezbollah and promised to continue working for the release of hostages held in Gaza. This contact comes as a 15-month ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, negotiated under the previous administration, remains fragile.
Find our file on the United States
Finally, in a decision marking a political turning point, Donald Trump lifted the sanctions imposed by Joe Biden against extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank, targeted because of their attacks against Palestinians. This measure reinforces Washington's alignment with Israeli policy in the occupied territories.
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