"Major Escalation" As USA Sends Warships off Coast of Yemen to Block Iranian Ships

Aimee Herd : Apr 20, 2015
Lucas Tomlinson, AP – Fox News

"Make no mistake, this is a major escalation of the fighting in Yemen…" –Shepard Smith, Fox News

(Yemen)—A US Navy battle group has reportedly moved an aircraft carrier and other warships to the waters off Yemen in order to intercept a weapons shipment from Iran. (Photo via Fox News)

The weapons shipment from Iran is directed for the Houthi rebels in Yemen, which Iran supports.

The Iranians made no secret of what they were doing, reportedly "announcing" that they were sending convoys of ships carrying arms for the rebels, seemingly to taunt the US even as President Obama and other world powers continue to engage the Mid-east country in talks toward a nuclear "deal" before the deadline at the end of June.

White House press secretary Josh Earnest noted to the press: "We have seen evidence that the Iranians are supplying weapons and other armed support to the Houthis in Yemen. That support will only contribute to greater violence in that country," he said. "These are exactly the kind of destabilizing activities that we have in mind when we raise concerns about Iran's destabilizing activities in the Middle East."

According to a Fox News report, a statement by the US Navy said, "In recent days, the US Navy has increased its presence in this area as a result of the current instability in Yemen.

"The purpose of these operations is to ensure the vital shipping lanes in the region remain open and safe. The United States remains committed to its regional partners and to maintaining security in the maritime environment."