US intelligence has uncovered discussions between Houthis in Yemen to provide weapons to the Somali militant group al-Shabaab. This development has been identified as a major concern that poses a threat to an already unstable region, according to three American officials who spoke with CNN.
Efforts are now underway to search for evidence of weapons being delivered to Somalia by the Houthis. Additionally, officials are investigating the possible involvement of Iran, a key supporter of the Houthis, in this agreement. Warning countries in the region about the potential cooperation has been a top priority for the US in recent weeks, as African nations have also raised concerns and sought more information on the matter.
The unlikely alliance between the Houthis and al-Shabaab, two groups divided by sectarian differences, has raised alarms. Despite their ideological opposition, the groups share a common animosity towards the United States. The intelligence indicates that a weapons deal between them could lead to increased violence in Somalia and the surrounding waters, where the Houthis have been targeting commercial and military vessels.
A potential agreement could provide much-needed income for the Houthis and grant al-Shabaab access to more sophisticated weaponry, including drones. This would pose a direct threat to US interests in the region. Although smuggling of arms has been common between different groups in the region, a weapons agreement between these two organizations would be unprecedented.
Military cooperation between the Houthis and al-Shabaab could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia and undermine efforts towards a lasting peace in the region. The US is closely monitoring the situation and investigating the types of weapons that could potentially be exchanged between the groups.
While there is uncertainty about the level of Iranian involvement in this arrangement, US officials are keeping a close watch on the situation. The independence of the Houthis from Iranian control adds complexity to the situation. Despite concerns, some military officials are skeptical of direct Iranian involvement, suggesting that the Houthis may be acting independently.
