Wed Nov 06 09:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Iran Accused of Arming Houthi Rebels in Yemen, Fueling Red Sea Attacks
**New York, NY** – A new United Nations report has accused Iran of providing extensive support to Houthi rebels in Yemen, enabling their aggressive campaign targeting merchant shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The report, delivered to the UN Security Council last month, details the Houthis’ receipt of weapons, training, technical assistance, and financial support from Iran, Lebanese Hezbollah, and Iraqi armed groups. The panel of experts concluded that the Houthis lack the capability to produce or develop such sophisticated weaponry without foreign assistance.
The Houthis have launched over 130 attacks on commercial and Western naval vessels, mainly using missiles and drones, since last year. These attacks have resulted in two sunken vessels, one hijacked ship (whose crew remains detained in Yemen), and the deaths of four sailors.
The report suggests the Houthis have exploited the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza to bolster their position within Iran’s “axis of resistance” network. This was highlighted by a September 2023 military parade showcasing their impressive arsenal, including anti-ship missiles, ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, and naval assets.
The UN experts also noted the Houthis’ likely reliance on external assistance to identify and target commercial vessels, as many vessels deactivated their automatic identification systems before entering the targeted area.
The report emphasizes the unprecedented scale and scope of military equipment and technology transfers to the Houthis, highlighting the critical role of Iran in their operations. The US Navy has repeatedly intercepted vessels smuggling weapons from Iran to the Houthis, including the seizure of ballistic and cruise missile parts in January.
The Pentagon has maintained a naval presence in the Red Sea, intercepting Houthi missiles and drones. US forces have also conducted airstrikes against the rebels in Yemen.
The UN experts note that US and UK forces have destroyed over 800 Houthi missiles and drones, along with command posts, radars, and weapon storage facilities.
The report raises serious concerns about the escalating conflict in Yemen and Iran’s continued role in destabilizing the region. The UN Security Council is expected to address these findings and consider further action to counter Iran’s support for the Houthi rebels.
First Piper 