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Two U.S. Navy SEALs are presumed missing following a nighttime operation off the coast of Somalia, where they were engaged in intercepting Iranian weaponry destined for Houthi militants in Yemen. U.S. Representative Andrew Clyde (R-GA) has called for prayers for the missing servicemen and their families.

U.S. Representative Andrew Clyde (R-GA), a Congressman at the U.S. House of Representatives, said, "Two Navy SEALs are still missing off the coast of Somalia after a night mission to seize Iranian weapons bound for Houthi terrorists in Yemen". He added, "Please join me in praying for their families and safe return."

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that earlier in January, its naval forces executed a nighttime seizure of an Iranian dhow off the Somali coast, intercepting advanced lethal aid meant for Houthi forces in Yemen. The intercepted items included components for Houthi ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles, which posed a threat to international merchant shipping in the Red Sea.

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According to CENTCOM, this operation marks the first seizure of Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons for the Houthis since November 2023 and the U.S. Navy's first interception of such components since November 2019. Two Navy SEALs who were directly involved in the mission have been reported missing at sea, triggering an extensive search operation. The transfer of weapons to the Houthis contravenes United Nations Security Resolution 2216 and international law.

General Michael Erik Kurilla from CENTCOM 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. We will continue to work with regional and international partners to expose and interdict these efforts, and ultimately to reestablish freedom of navigation."

According to Business Insider, sources have revealed that during the seizure operation, Navy SEALs approached the dhow using small combat craft. One SEAL reportedly slipped on a ladder while boarding, prompting his companion to dive in for assistance; both SEALs are now missing at sea.