US Department of Energy employee arrested for alleged support of Houthis

FBI: The FBI is the lead federal law enforcement agency tasked with investigating violations of US criminal laws, including terrorism-related offenses. In this matter, the FBI used a confidential source posing as a Houthi contact to obtain evidence of Ellaboudy's alleged technical assistance and material support activities. Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy: Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy is a 51-year-old electrical engineer and resident of Richland, Washington. He is charged with attempting to provide material support to the Houthis through travel to Yemen, technical assistance on communications equipment, and acquisition of explosives precursors and drone components. Prosecutors allege he misrepresented the purpose of his travel to border officials upon return. US Department of Energy: The US Department of Energy is the federal cabinet department responsible for advancing the nation's energy security, nuclear safety, and scientific research programs. One of its employees, Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy, was arrested on charges of attempting to provide material support to Yemen's Houthis. The department confirmed the alleged activities did not involve threats to its Hanford Site facilities. US Army Corps of Engineers: The US Army Corps of Engineers is a federal agency within the Department of Defense that delivers engineering, construction, and environmental management services. Ellaboudy previously worked there and used an official passport issued during his employment for unauthorized travel to Oman and Yemen in September 2025. National Security: The charges center on alleged efforts to aid an Iran-backed group designated as a foreign terrorist organization by providing specialized engineering support. Federal Employment: The case involves a current federal civilian employee whose prior military-affiliated work facilitated international travel under an official passport. Investigation Methods: Authorities relied on undercover communications with a confidential source to document the defendant's alleged guidance on equipment modifications and integration.