Houthis are training divers on planting mines, according to a coalition source, who added that mines were only introduced into Yemen after Houthis and Saleh militias
Saudi-led Coalition forces foiled a Houthi plot on the Yemeni island of Bawadi against international maritime lines, according to Coalition Spokesman Turki al-Malki.
“The impending attack included plans to use booby-trapped boats and a group of divers to plant naval mines,” Malki said.
Houthi members on Bawadi island were attacked, as they planned violent operations targeting international shipping routes and international trade, reported alarabiya.net which quoted Malki.
The source, who spoke to Asharq Al-Awsat on condition of anonymity, stated that the plan was that the island will be the starting point for the attack.
Earlier on November 07, Houthis militias' spokesperson Mohammed Abdul Salam threatened to target international shipping in the Red Sea, while head of the Supreme Political Council, Saleh al-Samad, showcased "Bab al-Mandeb" missiles.
Such weapons indicate that Iran regime continue to support Houthis, according to the source, who added that the mines are planted on 70 cm below sea level which is dangerous since the mines could be washed away with the sea movement causing an environmental crisis if they hit oil carriers.
The strategic Bawadi island is 24 kilometers away from western coast of Yemen and 9 kilometers northwest of Kimran island. The source explained that the island is not inhabited and thus it could be used as a launching point for attacks against international maritime.
According to Asharq Al-Awsat information, the coalition is taking a huge responsibility on behalf of the international society. The coalition exerts efforts to uncover mines and destroying it, as well as ensuring the stability and security of the international shipping routes and international trade.
Earlier, Houthis targeted US destroyer USS Mason, al-Madinah class frigate of the Saudi Royal Navy, and UAE Swift transport vessel. They also targeted vital locations in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, in addition to attacks on Mocha port, west of Yemen.
