In a recent operation, US Navy SEALs successfully intercepted Iranian missile components and other weapons on a ship bound for Yemen's Houthi rebels, shedding light on Iran's ongoing efforts to sow instability in the region. The raid, which took place on January 11, marked the latest seizure of weapons destined for the rebels, who have been targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

According to General Michael Erik Kurilla of US Central Command, two missing commandos were directly involved in the operation, which faced challenging conditions in rough waters. While attempting to approach the boat, one SEAL was knocked overboard by a large wave, prompting a teammate to dive in and save him.

The seized weapons included components for ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as air defense parts, officials revealed. These weapons are believed to have been used by the Houthis to threaten and attack merchant ships transiting the Red Sea, endangering innocent mariners. US Central Command denounced Iran's support for the Houthis, stating that this incident serves as yet another example of how Iran actively fuels instability in the region, in direct violation of a United Nations resolution prohibiting the transfer of arms to the rebels.

Following the operation, the US Navy deemed the ship carrying the weapons as unsafe, and it was subsequently sunk. Fourteen crew members from the vessel were detained by US authorities.

Meanwhile, British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps, in a speech delivered on Monday, expressed concerns about further military conflicts erupting in the Red Sea region. Despite ongoing airstrikes by the US and the UK against the Houthis, Shapps emphasized the need for continued international involvement to address the situation.

The United Kingdom has demonstrated its commitment to stepping up when necessary, as evidenced by its coordinated strikes with the United States against the Houthis. Shapps highlighted the UK's longstanding tradition of taking action when called upon to promote stability and ensure the safety and security of the region.

As tensions continue to rise in the Red Sea, the interception of Iranian weaponry serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in the region and the need for multinational efforts to counter the destabilizing actions of Iran and protect maritime trade routes.