[Discussion] Iran's Role in Yemen: U.S. Transfers Seized Weapons to Ukraine

[Uncrowned Guard]

The U.S. government transferred a significant arsenal, including over 5,000 AK-47s, machine guns, sniper rifles, RPG-7s, and more than 500,000 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, to the Ukrainian armed forces on April 4, 2024. This move aimed to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion. The weapons, obtained through the Department of Justice's civil forfeiture claims against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on December 1, 2023, were originally seized by U.S. Central Command and partner naval forces from stateless vessels between May 22, 2021, and February 15, 2023. These munitions were intended for transfer from the IRGC to the Houthis in Yemen, violating the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2216. The transfer underscores the U.S. commitment to countering Iran's support for armed groups in the region and enhancing regional security. 

 

Origin and Transfer

The U.S. government handed over a substantial arsenal to the Ukrainian armed forces, comprising various firearms and ammunition, to aid in Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion.

 Legal Acquisition

These weapons were acquired through civil forfeiture claims against Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by the Department of Justice on December 1, 2023.

Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The munitions were seized by U.S. Central Command and partner naval forces from stateless vessels, indicating a violation of the UN Security Council Resolution 2216. The transfer demonstrates the U.S.'s commitment to thwarting Iran's support for armed groups in the region and maintaining international security.

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