Navy SEALs Reported Missing During Covert Operation
Two Navy SEALs are currently missing after a covert operation in the Arabian Sea last week. The mission aimed to intercept weapons that Iran was allegedly delivering to Yemen, a country that has been launching rocket attacks against the United States since October 7th. The operation, as reported by the Washington Post, took a tragic turn when one SEAL slipped from a ladder while attempting to board the enemy ship. The second SEAL then dove in to help but both were swept away by powerful swells. The identities of the missing SEALs have not been publicly disclosed.
Efforts are underway to locate and rescue the missing SEALs, emphasizing the risks involved in military operations. The incident has stoked questions about the Biden administration's Middle East strategy and the potential consequences of recent actions. Concerns have been raised over the rising tensions with Iran, as the possibility of a deadly confrontation looms. Critics argue that the United States was previously making progress in containing Iran, which was facing economic difficulties and had limited resources for supporting terrorism. However, the recent change in policy, particularly the lifting of certain sanctions, has reportedly bolstered Iran's economic situation.
The covert operation involved a Visits Board Search and Seizure (VBSS), a dangerous task performed by the Navy SEALs. In this scenario, it resembles a traffic stop on the open ocean, where law enforcement agencies serve a search warrant on a suspected criminal aboard a vessel. Climbing a small ladder made of cords and metal, the SEALs would attempt to board the ship at a height of 20 to 30 feet, executing the search and seizure.
Critics argue that the missions SEALs are being tasked with are reactionary rather than proactive. They contend that these operations should not be necessary in the first place, as illegal activities should not be allowed to occur within the Gulf. The language used by the Biden administration, such as 'proportional responses' and 'singular attacks,' has come under scrutiny for potentially contributing to the current situation. Detractors claim that the lack of a proactive approach has placed service members in precarious situations, as evidenced by the current missing SEALs.
Questions surrounding the Biden administration's transparency have also emerged. Critics argue that their failure to provide clear and timely information further erodes trust. The reluctance to address concerns regarding ongoing military operations in the Middle East, as seen in the recent incident involving the missing SEALs, has raised doubts about the administration's ability to effectively handle such matters.
The search and rescue mission for the missing SEALs continues, as the nation holds its breath, hoping for their safe return. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by military personnel and the complex challenges involved in navigating a volatile region.
