Iran secretly transported senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders and missile related equipment to Yemen’s Houthi movement as the conflict with the United States intensified, according to regional and Western security sources.
The sources said Iranian military aircraft were used to move IRGC personnel, missile components and other military equipment to Houthi controlled areas in Yemen in recent weeks. The transfers were reportedly intended to strengthen the Houthis’ ability to launch attacks against shipping in the Red Sea and other regional targets.
The sources said the shipments included equipment linked to missile operations and advisers with expertise in operating advanced weapons systems. They added that the deployments coincided with an escalation in U.S. military strikes against Iranian targets and increased Houthi attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Red Sea.
Iran has repeatedly denied providing military support to the Houthis, maintaining that the group acts independently. The Houthis, who control large parts of northern Yemen, have also said their attacks are carried out in support of Palestinians and are not directed by Tehran.
The United States has accused Iran of arming and financing the Houthis, arguing that Tehran uses regional proxy groups to project influence across the Middle East. U.S. officials say the Houthis’ missile and drone capabilities have become increasingly sophisticated with Iranian assistance.
The reported transfers come as U.S. forces continue military operations against Iranian targets for a 12th consecutive night, while attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz have heightened concerns over global trade and energy security. Analysts said any increase in Iranian support for the Houthis could further destabilise the region and complicate diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.
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