Yemen Monitor / Agencies:
The maritime-focused website “The Maritime Executive” has revealed a possible withdrawal of Iranian naval forces from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
The report noted that the presence of two U.S. aircraft carriers in the region may be linked to this potential withdrawal.
The Iranian vessel Nedaja had maintained a continuous presence in the region since 2008, typically deploying a frigate supported by a logistics ship.
These deployments usually lasted around 90 days and included port visits to Salalah, Oman, during the return journey.
Following the completion of the 99th fleet’s mission at the end of last year, it is believed that the 100th fleet visited the Gulf of Aden, although its primary task was the transport of naval cadets.
No Iranian ships have been observed in the area for several months, indicating at least a temporary withdrawal after more than 80 consecutive deployments.
This theory is supported by unusual sightings of Iranian warships docked at Bandar Abbas Naval Base last March.
Satellite images also showed that two out of Iran’s three submarines were in dry dock, while the third may be on a mission tracking U.S. vessels.
This potential withdrawal carries significant implications, especially since the Houthis have relied on Iranian naval intelligence support for their attacks on ships.
The development comes at a time when U.S. airstrikes are intensifying, and the Houthis’ need for external support is reaching its peak.
