Two Navy Seals are currently missing after being swept into the water off the coast of Somalia during a nighttime attempt to board a vessel, according to officials.
The identities of the two Seals have not been disclosed publicly. The incident occurred in the Gulf of Aden as the Seals were ascending a vessel, and they were knocked overboard by waves. Following established protocol, when one SEAL is overcome, the next one jumps in to assist.
The Seals were engaged in an interdiction mission, intercepting weapons on ships bound for Houthi-controlled Yemen. Reports indicate that the incident happened when powerful waves disrupted their mission.
While the officials, who chose to remain anonymous, did not provide specific details about the mission, they clarified that it was unrelated to Operation Prosperity Guardian. This operation involves the United States and its allies working to safeguard commercial vessels in the Red Sea.
They also said the Seals’ work was not in relation to the Thursdaystrike against the Houthis by the United States and the United Kingdom.
Search and rescue teams are currently actively involved in the mission to locate the two missing soldiers. However, US Central Command has refrained from providing additional information until the ongoing efforts are completed. Two Navy Seals
The Gulf of Aden has become a focal point for military operations due to the surge in Houthi-led attacks against commercial ships in the Gulf and Red Sea, with approximately two dozen incidents reported since mid-November.
In response to the escalating situation, the US and UK conducted airstrikes on approximately 30 locations linked to the militant group over the past two days.
President Joe Biden revealed on Saturday that the US had conveyed a private message to Iran, a supporter of the Houthi faction, concerning their involvement in the attacks on ships. The President, while entering Camp David, stated, “We delivered it privately, and we’re confident we’re well prepared.”