A bill to require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.
A bill to require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.
Plain Language Summary
# Summary of S. 70 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the U.S. President to officially label Ansarallah (also known as the Houthis), an Iran-backed armed group operating in Yemen, as a foreign terrorist organization. Once designated, the bill would mandate that sanctions—such as asset freezes and trade restrictions—be imposed against the group and its leaders, officials, and associated members. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily targets Ansarallah's leadership and affiliated individuals by restricting their access to U.S. financial systems and assets.
It would also affect any U.S. entities or individuals who do business with the designated organization. Broader implications could include impacts on humanitarian operations in Yemen and international relations with countries that interact with the group. **Current Status** S. 70 was introduced by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. The bill remains pending and would require committee approval and subsequent Senate floor action to advance further.
CRS Official Summary
This bill requires the President to designate Ansarallah, the Iran-backed movement in Yemen also known as the Houthis, as a foreign terrorist organization. The President must also report to Congress a determination as to whether specified foreign persons are officials, agents, or affiliates of Ansarallah.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.