Thursday, Feb 15: US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the interception and seizure of advanced conventional weapons and other lethal aid originating in Iran and bound for the Houthi-controlled region of Yemen. The operation was carried out by the US Coast Guard cutter USCGC Clarence Sutphin Jr in the Arabian Sea.
In an operation on January 28, the United States Coast Guard Clarence Sutphin Jr, operating under CENTCOM, successfully boarded a vessel transporting a significant cache of military equipment from Iran to the Houthi rebels. This seizure represents a direct violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2216, which prohibits arms transfers to the Houthi forces.
The contraband included a variety of sophisticated weaponry and components:
- Over 200 packages containing components for the mid-range ballistic missile
- Explosive materials.
- Components for unmanned underwater/surface vehicles (UUV/USV).
- Military-grade communication and network equipment.
- Assemblies for Iranian ‘Dehlavieh’ anti-tank guided missile system.
General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander, emphasized the seizure as a testament to Iran’s malign activities in the region, jeopardizing the safety of international waters and the overall stability of the Middle East. The operation highlights the complexity of the international arms trade and the importance of vigilance and cooperation among nations to prevent the escalation of conflicts through the illegal supply of weapons.
CENTCOM Intercepts Iranian Weapons Shipment Intended for Houthis
TAMPA, Fla. – A U.S. Coast Guard cutter, forward deployed to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility, seized advanced conventional weapons and other lethal aid originating in Iran and bound to… pic.twitter.com/inkw4ihq1I
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) February 15, 2024
