June 6, 2025 | Washington, D.C.
A federal jury in the Eastern District of Virginia has convicted Pakistani national Muhammad Pahlawan, 49, on charges related to smuggling Iranian-made advanced conventional weapons destined for the Houthi rebel forces in Yemen. tradewindsnews.com+3justice.gov+3justice.gov+3
Intercepted Arms Shipment
On January 11, 2024, U.S. Navy forces operating from the USS Lewis B. Puller, including Navy SEALs and Coast Guard personnel, boarded an unflagged dhow in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Somalia. The boarding team discovered Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry, including ballistic missile components, anti-ship cruise missile components, and a warhead. These weapons were consistent with those used by the Houthi rebel forces during the time of the charged conspiracy against merchant ships and U.S. interests. justice.gov+1justice.gov+1
Conviction and Sentencing
Pahlawan was found guilty of multiple charges, including smuggling Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry destined for the Houthis in Yemen and threatening multiple witnesses. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 22 and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for each of the most serious charges. x.com+3justice.gov+3justice.gov+3globalnation.inquirer.net+1ground.news+1
Broader Implications
This conviction highlights ongoing concerns about the illicit transfer of advanced weaponry to non-state actors in conflict zones. The U.S. government continues to monitor and intercept illegal arms shipments that threaten regional stability and international maritime security.
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