In a dynamic turn of events, the US Navy has launched an extensive search operation in the Gulf of Aden for two missing Navy SEALs. Details have emerged about their mission, which involved boarding and disrupting a vessel carrying components for medium-range Iranian ballistic missiles destined for Somalia.

According to a US defense official, the Navy's search efforts are focused on locating the two SEALs who were attempting to take control of the vessel. The dhow, which was flagged with no specific country affiliation, had plans to transfer missile parts, including warheads and engines, to another boat off the coast of Somalia. The boat has a history of transporting illegal weapons from Iran to Somalia, the official disclosed on the condition of anonymity.

The incident unfolded on the USS Lewis B. Puller, a Navy expeditionary sea base vessel, where the SEALs were stationed. Utilizing small special operations combat craft, operated by highly skilled naval special warfare crew, the SEALs navigated treacherous seas to board the vessel. However, in the midst of attempting the boarding operation at approximately 8 p.m. local time, one SEAL was swept off the vessel by powerful waves. Without hesitation, a teammate plunged into the water to assist, and both have been reported missing since.

The SEAL team encountered a crew of around a dozen individuals upon boarding the small boat. The crew, suspected of involvement in illicit activities, were apprehended by the US Navy. The absence of any documentation allowed for a thorough search of the vessel. Subsequently, the weapons were seized, and the boat was intentionally sunk - a customary procedure that involves creating holes in the hull.

It is important to note that the Gulf of Aden has been a regular area of interest for the US Navy, with a focus on interception missions to thwart illegal weapon transfers. This strategic region has witnessed similar interdictions of vessels bound for Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen.

Authorities have affirmed that the mission undertaken by the SEALs is unrelated to Operation Prosperity Guardian, an ongoing international effort aiming to safeguard commercial vessels in the Red Sea. Furthermore, the retaliatory strikes carried out by the United States and the United Kingdom in Yemen over the past two days are also unrelated to this incident.

In the wake of this incident, the US Navy has mobilized ships, helicopters, and drones in an intensive search operation to locate and recover the missing SEALs. Given their rigorous training for such situations, officials remain hopeful for a positive outcome.