US praises Yemeni forces led by Tariq Saleh for foiling Houthi weapons smuggling attempt

The US has praised Yemeni forces led by Gen Tariq Saleh for intercepting a shipment of weaponry allegedly smuggled to Houthi rebels.

US Central Command said security forces confiscated drones, jet propulsion systems, wireless devices, and advanced control components on August 6 from the Port of Aden.

The cargo, bound for the Houthi-controlled port of Hodeidah, was uncovered during a joint inspection by counterterrorism, customs, and police units. Officials said the operation was co-ordinated with the public prosecutor and port authorities.

Led by Gen Saleh, Yemen’s National Resistance Forces (NRF), which carried out the operation, is a coalition of anti-Houthi forces loyal to the internationally recognised government.

Gen Saleh, a nephew of the late president Ali Abdullah Saleh, is an army commander. He is a member of the presidential council of Yemen and played a leading role in coastal battles against the Houthis before becoming a central figure in the Red Sea forces.

The US accuses Tehran of smuggling advanced weapons to the Houthis, a charge Iran denies.

In recent years, US and allied naval patrols have intercepted shipments of Iranian-made drones, cruise missile components, and small arms believed to be headed to the Houthis.

Experts said these supplies have enabled the rebels to expand long-range strikes on shipping lanes and regional targets, including western warships in the Red Sea.