Yemen's National Resistance Force Makes Big Weapon Seizure
In a surprising turn of events, a group fighting for Yemen's recognized government has taken control of a huge shipment of weapons. These weapons, weighing 750 tons, were reportedly sent by Iran and meant for the Houthi rebels. This is a big deal because it's the first time this group, called the National Resistance Force, has made such a large seizure.
Weapons Seized
The weapons include:
- Anti-ship missiles, which the Houthis have used to attack ships in the Red Sea.
- Anti-aircraft missiles
- Drone parts
The group claims that the weapons were intercepted in late June.
U.S. Military Backs Claim
The U.S. military has backed up this claim. They said that the weapons had manuals written in Farsi, the language spoken in Iran. The U.S. also said that the weapons were made by a company linked to Iran's Ministry of Defense.
Significance of the Seizure
This seizure is important because it shows that Iran is still sending weapons to the Houthis, despite a United Nations arms embargo. Iran has denied these claims, but evidence keeps showing up on the battlefield and in sea shipments.
Yemen's Ongoing Conflict
The Houthis have been in control of Yemen's capital, Sanaa, since 2014. A Saudi-led coalition has been fighting against them since 2015. The war has caused a lot of suffering, with more than 150,000 people killed and a humanitarian crisis that has led to tens of thousands more deaths.
U.S. Military's Response
The U.S. military has praised the seizure, saying it's important for regional security and stability. They also said it's crucial for keeping the Red Sea safe for ships to pass through.
Conclusion
This seizure is a reminder of the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the role that outside countries, like Iran, play in it. It's also a sign that the fight against the Houthis is still very much alive.