The recent intercept of an international firearms smuggling operation by the U.S. Navy demonstrates exactly why such a powerful military force is necessary – to effectively combat illegal activities and keep our nation safe. It is reassuring to know that the United States Naval forces are always ready and able to step in when needed to protect us from threats both foreign and domestic.
The United States Navy stopped a fishing vessel from smuggling more than 2,000 AK-47s from Iran to Yemen, averting potentially disastrous circumstances in the already chaotic conflict occurring in the middle east. The operation was carried out swiftly and with precision by the US military forces, highlighting the success of American diplomatic law-enforcement collaboration. This unlawful transport meant that foreign fighters were not provided with deadly weapons – a major victory in helping to prevent more violence.Â
Daily Wire reports, according to Navy Forces Central Command, the U.S. Navy stopped a fishing boat from smuggling over 2,000 AK-47s from Iran to Yemen.
USS Chinook, a patrol coastal ship in the Gulf of Oman, seized the weapons with the assistance of other naval vessels on Friday afternoon.
i24 News did a report on this development.
According to the Navy, weapons transfers to Houthi rebels in Yemen violate UN Security Council Resolution 2216 and international law. The transfer of the vessel and six crew members is in progress.
As a result of this apprehension, it will be the third time in recent years that a fishing vessel has been intercepted trying to provide lethal assistance to Yemen through the Gulf of Oman.
On December 1, naval forces seized more than 50 tons of ammunition rounds, fuses, and rocket propellants. On November 8, naval forces and a U.S. Coast Guard vessel seized 70 tons of ammonium perchlorate and 100 tons of urea fertilizer from a boat carrying more than 70 tons of ammonium perchlorate, which is commonly used to make rocket and missile fuel.
Houthis are rebels fighting Yemen’s recognized government in a long-term civil war. In addition, the Saudis support the government of Iran, which has been called a proxy war between these two countries.
The Yemen war came to an end in October 2022 after a six-month ceasefire. During the long-running conflict, more than 150,000 people have been killed, including 14,500 civilians.
The European Union challenged the Houthis last month to end their armed conflict and work with the United Nations to resolve the conflict.
The successful interceptions of smugglers are a reminder of the power and importance of our military. These interceptions were not just luck, but rather a testament to the hard work, dedication and skill of the American soldiers in charge. The current civil war is especially terrible to witness, but it’s important to remember that it’s not America alone to solve these global problems. We must be grateful for our brave servicemen and women who are capable of such tasks as these interceptions. Without them and all their dedication, we would not be nearly as safe locally and internationally. Which is why it’s ever so crucial to equip our military with the best training so they continue to respond like this.
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