Joco Today

U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jim Risch, along with several Republican colleagues, have introduced the Dismantle Iran’s Proxy Act. This legislation aims to designate the Houthis as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO), which would lead to asset freezes and criminal penalties for those supporting them.

Senator Marshall stated, "This week, President Trump secured the release of innocent civilians, including seven Americans, who have been wrongfully held hostage by Hamas terrorists, and brokered a peaceful ceasefire in the Middle East." He emphasized the need to redesignate the Houthis as an FTO due to their coordination with Hamas and Iran against Israel.

Senator Risch remarked on the importance of restoring previous measures: “After launching nearly daily attacks against American vessels in the Red Sea and Israel, the Houthis have ground international shipping to a standstill. This bill will restore President Trump’s historic decision to designate the Houthis a foreign terrorist organization."

Other senators echoed similar sentiments. Senator Cotton described the Houthis as "a barbaric gang of outlaws," while Senator Collins highlighted recent events since October 7, 2023, that have seen increased Houthi aggression. She noted efforts by U.S. forces to counter these threats.

Senator Graham criticized the Biden Administration's decision to revoke the designation: “The Biden Administration’s decision to revoke the Houthis’ terrorist designation proved to be a massive – and obvious – miscalculation.”

Further support came from Senator Crapo, who stressed U.S. solidarity with Israel and called for sanctions against the group. Senator Hagerty also criticized past decisions: “The Biden Administration’s delisting of the Houthis was unconscionable.”

Senators Scott and Cassidy emphasized accountability for Iran-backed actions affecting allies like Israel. Senator Boozman praised previous designations for their effectiveness in freezing assets and imposing penalties.

Finally, Senator Katie Britt addressed what she saw as errors by President Biden: “The Dismantling Iran’s Proxy Act fixes President Biden’s errors while restoring a designation President Trump instituted years ago.”

The proposed act seeks to reestablish measures initially put in place by former President Trump in January 2021 but later revoked by President Biden.