Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB3347

Introduced
11/27/23  

Caption

A bill to require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.

Impact

The implications of SB3347 are significant in the context of U.S. foreign policy and counter-terrorism efforts. By formally designating Ansarallah as a terrorist organization, the U.S. government seeks to limit the financial and operational capabilities of the group, thereby aiming to mitigate their influence and actions in regions affected by their activities, particularly in Yemen. This bill underscores the prioritization of national security and the U.S. stance against international terrorism.

Summary

SB3347 is a legislative bill introduced to impose sanctions on Ansarallah, also known as the Houthi movement, and its associated officials, agents, or affiliates, for their acts of international terrorism. The bill mandates that within a strict timeframe of 30 days from enactment, the President must designate Ansarallah as a foreign terrorist organization and apply applicable sanctions in accordance with existing executive orders, particularly focusing on blocking property and prohibiting transactions related to terrorism.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB3347 may arise from debates on the effectiveness of sanctions as a tool to combat terrorism. Critics may argue that sanctions often hurt the populace more than the intended targets and could exacerbate humanitarian crises in areas heavily impacted by Ansarallah's actions. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the geopolitical ramifications of this designation, especially relating to U.S. relations with other Middle Eastern nations and entities.

Additional_context

The bill’s introduction by notable senators indicates a concerted effort among U.S. legislators to take a strong stand against terrorism and to reinforce measures that hold accountable those engaged in such activities. As the bill moves through legislative channels, discussions in committee may reveal the complexities of implementing such sanctions and the broader implications for international relations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB1250

To require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.

US SB70

A bill to require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.

US SB159

Standing Against Houthi Aggression ActThis bill requires (1) the Department of State to designate Ansarallah, the Iran-backed movement in Yemen also known as the Houthis, as a foreign terrorist organization; and (2) 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.

US SB145

Dismantle Iran’s Proxy Act of 2025This bill requires the President to take actions against Ansarallah, the Iran-backed movement in Yemen also known as the Houthis.Specifically, the bill requires the President to designate Ansarallah as a foreign terrorist organization. (Among other things, such a designation allows the Department of the Treasury to require U.S. financial institutions to block transactions involving the organization.)  The President must also (1) impose property blocking sanctions on Ansarallah and any foreign person who is an official, agent, or affiliate of the organization; (2) submit to Congress a determination as to whether three specified individuals are officials, agents, or affiliates of Ansarallah; and (3) submit to Congress a strategy to degrade the offensive capabilities of Ansarallah and to restore freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and nearby waterways.

US SB3874

Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad International Terrorism Support Prevention Act of 2024

US HB6120

NO OIL for Terrorists Act Negating Opportunities for Oil Income Leveraged for Terrorists Act

US HB6153

To provide for a review of sanctions with respect to Hong Kong.

US SB3235

End Iranian Terrorism Act of 2023

US HB340

Hamas International Financing Prevention Act This bill imposes sanctions targeting Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and any affiliate or successor groups. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of each foreign person (individual or entity) that knowingly provides significant support or services to or is involved in a significant transaction with a senior member or supporter of the targeted groups. The President must impose two or more sanctions on the named persons. Specifically, the person may be (1) denied credit and services from the Export-Import Bank, (2) barred from purchasing certain controlled defense articles, (3) denied exports of items on the U.S. Munitions List, (4) prevented from receiving exports of certain goods or technology controlled for national security reasons, (5) prohibited from receiving financing of more than $10 million from any U.S. financial institution, or (6) subject to property-blocking restrictions. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of foreign governments that have repeatedly provided material support for the targeted groups' terrorist activities. The President shall bar these governments from receiving for one year (1) U.S. assistance, or (2) exports of controlled munitions. The Department of the Treasury must instruct U.S. leadership of international financial institutions to oppose providing assistance to an identified government for one year. The bill provides for certain exceptions and waivers, such as for transactions that would serve U.S. national interests. The President must report to Congress and periodically provide briefings on other specified topics related to the targeted groups, such as where these groups secure financing and surveillance equipment.

US HB691

Sanctioning Iranian-Backed Militia Terrorists Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.