Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
Yemeni naval forces loyal to the internationally recognized government successfully thwarted two major arms smuggling operations on Saturday, targeting large military shipments bound for the Iran-backed Houthi group, designated as a terrorist organization. The interceptions occurred during two separate operations in the Red Sea waters.
According to a statement published by the official Yemeni News Agency, forces from the 1st Marine Infantry Brigade, in coordination with Coast Guard units, intercepted two sailboats (locally known as jalbatayn) carrying a massive cache of military materials. The cargo included three million electric detonators, 3,600 kilometers of wiring, and 64 satellite communication devices.
The agency noted that the operation was based on precise intelligence provided by the General Intelligence Division of the National Resistance Forces—units loyal to the Yemeni government and overseen by Presidential Leadership Council member Tariq Saleh. Preliminary investigations with the 14 crew members revealed strong links to the Houthi group.
The statement added that the vessels were en route to Ras Isa Port in Hodeidah province, where the confiscated detonators—according to military experts—are typically used to rig explosive-laden boats and drones, and to remotely activate minefields via infrared or battery-based technologies. The long spools of wiring are commonly employed to connect explosive networks for coordinated attacks.
This operation is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt the Houthis’ military supply chains, as the group continues to use such equipment to escalate offensive operations in the region.
