In a recent operation off the coast of Somalia, the US Navy has successfully intercepted Iranian-made ballistic missile and cruise missile components aboard a vessel. The seized weapons were destined for the Houthi rebels in Yemen, according to US Central Command.

The seizure comes at a time of increasing tensions between the United States and Iranian proxies in the region. As search and rescue operations continue for two missing SEALs who went overboard, the US Navy's efforts to disrupt the flow of weapons to the Houthis highlight the ongoing challenges in the area.

Last week, the US and UK militaries launched strikes against Houthi targets in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. This marked a significant response to the Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The international community has become increasingly alarmed about the threat posed to this critical waterway.

According to a US official, the recent strikes destroyed only a fraction of the Houthi group's offensive capabilities, leaving them with the majority of their ability to strike ships in the Red Sea.

The operation conducted by the US Navy involved Navy SEALs from the USS Lewis B. Puller, who boarded the dhow in international waters off the coast of Somalia. The seized components included propulsion, guidance, and warheads for Houthi medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) and anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), as well as air defense associated components.

Initial analysis indicates that these weapons have been used by the Houthis to threaten and attack international merchant ships transiting in the Red Sea. The US remains committed to working with its regional and international partners to counter Iran's destabilizing actions and restore freedom of navigation in the region.

Helicopters and drones played a crucial role in the operation, and the small vessel carrying the weapons was deemed unsafe and subsequently sunk by the Navy. As for the 14-person crew onboard, their fate is being determined in accordance with international law.

This is not the first time that CENTCOM has announced the seizure of lethal aid going from Iran to Yemen. In previous instances, US and French forces seized assault rifles and ammunition, while the US announced the transfer of seized Iranian weapons and ammo rounds to Ukraine.

The latest seizure of Iranian weapons destined for the Houthis serves as a clear indication of Iran's ongoing support for the militant group and its violation of international law. The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to exposing and interdicting such efforts, with the ultimate aim of ensuring freedom of navigation in the region.