In a tragic incident during an operation to seize Iranian-made weapons bound for Houthis in Yemen, two US Navy Seals are now presumed dead. The incident occurred on 11th January when commandos were boarding a ship off the coast of Somalia. While one Navy Seal was swept away, the other jumped in after them, following protocol. The US military, specifically the US Central Command (Centcom), has expressed deep sorrow for the loss of these Naval Special Warfare warriors.
After the Navy Seals went missing, a massive search operation ensued involving air and naval units from the US, Japan, and Spain. The search, which lasted for 10 days, covered an expansive area of over 21,000 square miles with the assistance of oceanographers and meteorologists. The primary objective was to locate and recover the bodies of the missing commandos.
Navy Seals play a vital role as members of a specialized maritime military force responsible for various tasks, including reconnaissance and carrying out covert operations. During the 11th January operation, the seized items from a traditional sailing ship, known as a dhow, included warheads for Houthi medium-range ballistic missiles, anti-ship cruise missiles, and parts for air defense systems. These components have been used by Iran-backed Houthis to target vessels in the Red Sea. The supply, sale, and transfer of such weapons to the Houthis are deemed violations of a 2015 United Nations Security Resolution and international law.
The Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have resulted in dozens of vessels being targeted and have forced hundreds of cargo ships and tankers to divert their routes around the southern tip of Africa to avoid being struck. The Houthis claim to target vessels with connections to Israel, as they support Hamas. However, it is concerning that they have attacked ships without clear connections to Israel and have expanded their strikes to include ships associated with the US and UK. The escalation of attacks occurred following airstrikes launched by both the US and UK against Houthi positions in Yemen in retaliation for the Red Sea attacks.
The Houthis currently control the northern regions, the capital city Sanaa, and the Red Sea coastline in Yemen. While the US and UK assert that they do not seek conflict with the Houthis, they are committed to protecting the international trade route in the Red Sea. The situation in the Red Sea has become increasingly alarming for ship crews, as the attacks pose significant risks and jeopardize maritime security.
This tragic incident serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel in the line of duty. The loss of the two Navy Seals is a blow to their colleagues, families, and the nation as a whole. It highlights the dangers and challenges faced by those serving in specialized military units engaged in high-risk operations. The sacrifices made by our armed forces should be honored, and their dedication and commitment to protecting our nation and international peace should serve as an inspiration to all.
