DOJ Charges DOE Employee for Supporting Houthi Terrorists
U.S. government employee accused of aiding Yemeni Houthis, a designated foreign terrorist organization.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged a Department of Energy (DOE) employee for providing material support to the Houthi terrorist group in Yemen. The employee, Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy, is accused of traveling overseas and using his specialized expertise to aid the Houthis, a designated foreign terrorist organization backed by Iran.
DOJ Details the Allegations
According to the DOJ, Ellaboudy acquired materials for the construction of explosive devices and drones capable of delivering explosives. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg described the allegations as ‘deeply disturbing’ and emphasized the seriousness of the case.
The FBI investigation revealed that Ellaboudy had purchased drone construction parts and precursor chemicals often used in making homemade explosive devices. The DOE stated that the matter did not involve any threat to the Hanford Site or its workforce, and that they remain committed to a safe and secure workplace.
Ellaboudy’s Travel and Cover-Up
The complaint alleges that in December 2024, Ellaboudy took sick leave, claiming exposure to nitric acid, a chemical used in making explosives. In September 2025, he traveled from Richland, Washington to Oman, then to Yemen using an official passport. Upon returning, he falsely claimed to have been on official government business, but his supervisor confirmed he had no authorized travel to the region.
Questions About Broader Implications
The case raises questions about whether this is an isolated incident or part of a larger issue. The DOJ and the DOE are under scrutiny as they face increased pressure to ensure the security and integrity of federal operations.
Source: PJ Media
