Two Navy SEALs lost at sea declared dead

Two Navy SEALs are confirmed deceased as the US military ends the 10-day search in the Arabian Sea. The elite service members disappeared during a mission to intercept weapons from Iran headed to Houthi fighters.

The military covered over 21,000 square miles during the extensive search.

The incident unfolded during a nighttime commando mission on January 11. Troops were dispatched from a floating base, the USS Lewis B. Puller, to inspect a ship suspected of carrying illicit arms.

As the SEALs attempted to board a suspect vessel, rough seas caused one SEAL to slip off the boarding ladder, prompting another to jump in for a rescue. Unfortunately, both SEALs were swept away by strong waves during the operation. 

Despite efforts with surveillance drones and helicopters, recovery efforts proved unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, US forces continue airstrikes in Yemen to counter Iran-backed Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.