U.S. Commends Yemeni Forces for Seizing Iranian Arms Bound for Houthis

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) praised Yemeni Coast Guard forces aligned with the internationally recognized government for intercepting a shipment of advanced Iranian weaponry destined for the Houthi militia during a maritime operation in the southern Red Sea last Wednesday.

In a statement, CENTCOM confirmed the seizure, which included cruise missile components, suicide drones, naval radars, and cutting-edge jamming systems. “Congratulations to the Coast Guard of the legitimate government of Yemen on their interdiction of Iranian advanced weapon components, drones, and communications gear that was destined for the Iranian backed Houthi terrorists".

On February 12, the Yemen Coast Guard interdicted a Dhow in the Southern Red Sea that was destined for Hodeidah port and reportedly originated in Iran.

The dhow had a 40-foot container containing qualitative military equipment, including cruise missiles' structures, jet engines used in cruise missiles and suicide drones, reconnaissance drones, in addition to marine radars, a modern jamming system, and an advanced wireless communications system. CENTCOM said.

This operation highlights intensified global efforts to curb illicit arms flows to the Houthis, who have repeatedly targeted commercial shipping lanes in the Red Sea using Iranian-supplied weapons. The militia’s attacks, including drone and missile strikes, have disrupted maritime trade and drawn condemnation from the international community.

The interception comes amid mounting evidence of Tehran’s material support for the Houthis, further straining diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.