FBI arrests former DOE employee for allegedly providing materials, expert assistance to Houthis

The FBI arrested Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy, a former US Department of Energy employee, for allegedly providing material support to the Houthi terrorist organization, including communications equipment and materials for explosives and drones. The investigation began when the FBI learned Ellaboudy had purchased chemicals and components commonly used in explosive devices, as well as drone parts. In 2025, he traveled from Washington state to Oman using an official passport, then crossed into Yemen intending to reach Sanaa. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.

The FBI arrested Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy, a 51-year-old former US Department of Energy employee from Washington, on charges of attempting to provide material support to the Houthi terrorist organization. According to the Department of Justice, Ellaboudy allegedly aided the Houthis by improving their communications capabilities and providing materials for homemade explosives and drones. The investigation began when the FBI learned Ellaboudy had purchased chemicals and components commonly used in explosive devices, as well as drone parts. In December 2024, he took sick leave claiming exposure to highly concentrated nitric acid, a chemical used in explosives. In 2025, Ellaboudy traveled from Washington state to Oman using an official passport from his time with the US Army Corps of Engineers, then crossed into Yemen intending to reach Sanaa. Upon return, he falsely told customs officials he was on official government business. During the investigation, Ellaboudy communicated with an FBI source posing as a Houthi operative, providing expert advice on communications equipment and solar power systems. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.