The US Navy Seals missing operation, which had been ongoing for 10 days, ended in despair. The operation was initiated off the coast of Somalia on January 11th, with the objective of intercepting Iranian weapons destined for Yemen’s Houthi rebels. However, the mission took a tragic turn when two US Navy Seals from the USS Lewis Puller went overboard and subsequently went missing.
The US Central Command (Centcom) had previously reported that the two Seals were involved in the operation, which saw the elite special operations personnel boarding a dhow off the coast of Somalia. The mission was successful in seizing missile components manufactured in Iran. However, the victory was overshadowed by the loss of the two Seals.
After the operation was initially publicized, Gen. Kurilla stated,
“It is clear that Iran continues shipment of advanced lethal aid to the Houthis. This is yet another example of how Iran actively sows instability throughout the region in direct violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law.”
The Seals approached the dhow in small special operations combat boats. As they were boarding the boat on high seas with 8ft swells, one Seal commando was knocked into the sea by a high wave. In line with the protocol for such incidents, another Seal dived in after him. Despite the immediate response and a subsequent exhaustive 10-day search, the Seals were not located.
On Sunday, Centcom announced in a statement,
“After a 10-day exhaustive search, our two missing US Navy Seals have not been located and their status has been changed to deceased.” “We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example,” said CENTCOM Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla.
“Our prayers are with the SEALs’ families, friends, the U.S. Navy, and the entire Special Operations community during this time,” Gen. Erik Kurilla further added.
The search and rescue operation has now shifted to recovery operations. This incident has brought to light the risks faced by servicemen involved in complex operations. It serves as a grim reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel in their efforts to maintain peace and security. As the world mourns the loss of the two brave Seals, questions are being raised about the safety measures in place for such high-risk operations.
The incident has also highlighted the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the escalating tensions in the region.
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