News of War Editor-in-Chief Casey Christie
Image from US Central Command via X
U.S. Navy SEALs Intercept Iranian Weapons Shipment off Somali Coast
In a significant operation on 11 January 2024, U.S. Navy SEALs successfully intercepted a vessel smuggling advanced lethal weaponry from Iran, intended for Houthi forces in Yemen. This action represents a important moment in the ongoing conflict impacting international maritime safety.
Operating under the cover of darkness, the elite Navy SEALs, embarked on the USS Lewis B Puller (ESB 3), executed a highly complex and precise boarding of a dhow near the Somali coast, located in international waters of the Arabian Sea. This daring operation, supported by both helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), led to the capture of Iranian-made components for ballistic and cruise missiles.
The seized cargo included essential parts such as propulsion units, guidance systems, and warheads, specifically designed for use in Houthi medium range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) and anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs). Additionally, components related to air defense systems were also recovered. Analysis indicates that these weapons have previously been used by the Houthis in their aggressive campaign against international merchant vessels traversing the Red Sea.
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This seizure marks a first in U.S. Navy history since November 2019, capturing lethal, advanced conventional weapons (ACW) supplied by Iran to the Houthis. Such actions are in direct contravention of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law, highlighting Iran's continued role in destabilising the region through illegal arms shipments.
The operation, however, was not without its costs. Two U.S. Navy SEALs, previously reported missing at sea, were confirmed to have been part of this critical mission. General Michael Erik Kurilla, USCENTCOM Commander, expressed his commitment to an exhaustive search for the missing personnel.
Following the operation, the dhow was deemed unsafe and subsequently sunk by U.S. Navy forces. The fate of the 14 crew members aboard the dhow is currently being assessed in line with international legal standards.
General Kurilla strongly condemned Iran's actions, emphasising the clear violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law. He reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to work alongside regional and global partners to thwart such illegal activities and restore safe passage in these vital maritime routes.
Image from US Central Command via X