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

Former US Department of Energy employee Ashton Hamed Ellaboudy, 51, has been arrested by the FBI on charges of attempting to provide material support to the Houthi terrorist organization. The US Department of Justice announced the arrest on Thursday.

According to court records, Ellaboudy is accused of aiding the Houthis by enhancing their communications capabilities and providing materials for homemade explosives and drones. His investigation began when the FBI received information about his purchases of chemicals, components, and other materials typically used in the construction of explosive devices and drone parts.

In December 2024, Ellaboudy claimed he had been exposed to highly concentrated nitric acid, a common chemical used in explosive materials, and took sick leave. Later, in 2025, he traveled from Richland, Washington, to Oman using an official passport from his time working for the US Army Corps of Engineers. He then crossed into Yemen, heading towards Sanaa, the capital under Houthi control.

Upon returning to the US, Ellaboudy told Customs and Border Protection officers he was traveling on official government business, a claim his DOE supervisor disputed.

During the investigation, Ellaboudy communicated with an FBI confidential human source claiming to work for a Houthi Colonel. He allegedly provided expert advice on communications equipment to be sent to Yemen for use in a mobile communications center. Ellaboudy assisted in testing and modifying solar power generators and communication equipment, providing guidance on power and communication systems, and researching additional equipment to enhance their capabilities. If convicted, Ellaboudy faces up to 20 years in prison.