Saudi-led coalition targets Houthi weapons smuggling operations at sea

Houthis: The Houthis are an Iran-backed Yemeni rebel group controlling parts of northwestern Yemen and involved in the civil war. They have engaged in smuggling networks using organized crime groups to receive weapons by sea. The coalition's strikes, including on vehicles and sea shipments, directly target these operations as described in the news. Turki al-Maliki: Turki al-Maliki serves as the spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition supporting legitimacy in Yemen. He publicly releases evidence such as videos of weapons smuggling and strikes, and issues statements on operations against Houthi capabilities. In this case, he shared footage showing sea transport, unloading, and subsequent strikes on the smuggling network. Saudi-led coalition: The Saudi-led military coalition supports Yemen's internationally recognized government against Houthi forces in the ongoing conflict. It conducts operations to neutralize threats including weapons smuggling and cross-border attacks. In the reported incident, the coalition targeted sea-based smuggling operations supplying the Houthis with weapons via Yemen's Hodeidah governorate. Iranian Support: Iran continues to arm, train, and support the Houthis in violation of UN Security Council resolutions, according to Saudi officials. Maritime Operations: Houthi smuggling networks increasingly rely on sea routes to deliver weapons to Yemeni shores and islands, prompting coalition interceptions at sea. Advanced Capabilities: The Houthis have acquired advanced military technologies including ballistic missiles, attack and suicide drones, and explosive-laden boats with assistance from regional actors.