Canada has designated the Yemen-based militant group Ansarallah, commonly known as the Houthis, as a terrorist entity.
“Today’s addition of Ansarallah as a listed terrorist entity contributes to our efforts in fighting terrorism globally and aligning Canada with our allies,” Blair said. “Acts of violent extremism and terrorism have no place in the world and we will continue to take action to curtail the spread of these activities internationally and to counter threats to Canada, its citizens and its interests around the world.”
Following Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, Ansarallah has carried out disruptive strikes targeting civilian ships and military forces in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. These waterways connect to the Suez Canal, a vital shipping route that shortens travel between Asia and Europe, bypassing the long journey around Africa.
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“Canada must ensure the Houthi terrorists are held accountable for their actions,” Poilievre said in a Jan. 19 statement. “Currently, they are able to legally operate, organize, recruit and fundraise in Canada, helping them to continue their reign of terror in Yemen while attacking civilian and allied vessels in international waters.”
Ansarallah has been waging an insurgency in the country since the early 2000s, aiming to unseat the Yemeni government. The militant group now controls large areas of northwestern Yemen, including the capital, Sana’a.
Noé Chartier contributed to this report.
