Aden — Yemeni authorities have announced the interception of a shipment containing military-grade equipment and chemical materials that was reportedly destined for Houthi militias. 

The operation took place near the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a vital maritime chokepoint linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

Security officials confirmed that the seized cargo included components suspected to be used in the manufacture of explosives and other military applications. 

Preliminary investigations suggest the shipment was part of a broader smuggling network aimed at reinforcing Houthi capabilities amid ongoing conflict.

The Yemeni government condemned the attempted transfer as a flagrant violation of international resolutions and a threat to regional stability. 

Officials emphasized the importance of tightening maritime surveillance and called on international partners to support efforts to curb illicit arms flows into conflict zones.

The seizure comes amid heightened tensions and renewed scrutiny of supply routes used by armed groups operating in Yemen.