The Karine A affair, also widely known by its Hebrew operational designation, Operation "Noah's Ark" (Hebrew: מבצע תיבת נוח, romanized: Mivtza Teyvat Noah), represents a pivotal Israeli military action that unfolded in the Red Sea during January 2002. This precise naval interdiction saw elite forces of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) seize the MV Karine A, a civilian cargo vessel which, according to the IDF's intelligence and subsequent findings, was operating as a clandestine freighter on behalf of Palestinian entities.

The meticulously planned operation, executed by naval commandos from Shayetet 13, Israel's equivalent of the U.S. Navy SEALs, occurred approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles) from Israel's coast, south of Yemen. This strategic location in international waters underscored the extensive intelligence gathering that preceded the mission.

Upon boarding the vessel, IDF forces discovered a staggering cache of approximately 50 tons of advanced weaponry concealed within twenty-three shipping containers, disguised amongst legitimate cargo. This illicit consignment was far more extensive and sophisticated than typical arms smuggling attempts. The inventory included:

• Short-range Katyusha rockets: Specifically, hundreds of 107mm rockets, known for their effectiveness in urban environments and often used indiscriminately against civilian populations. These munitions could have significantly amplified the lethality and reach of Palestinian militant groups.
• Antitank missiles: A substantial number of advanced antitank guided missiles (ATGMs), believed to be of Russian or Iranian manufacture, such as the Metis (AT-13 "Saxhorn") and Fagot (AT-4 "Spigot") systems. These powerful weapons posed a direct threat to Israeli armored vehicles and military outposts.
• High explosives: Large quantities of military-grade explosives, including C4 and Semtex, along with detonators and other components necessary for constructing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) or for demolition purposes.
• Mortar rounds: A diverse assortment of mortar bombs of various calibers.
• Sniper rifles: Precision long-range firearms.
• Small arms and ammunition: Additional rifles, pistols, and vast amounts of ammunition.

According to verified intelligence from Israeli and later, U.S. sources, this massive weapons shipment originated from Iran, was facilitated by Hezbollah in Lebanon, and was ultimately destined for Palestinian militant factions in the Gaza Strip, particularly the Tanzim Force of Fatah, an armed offshoot of the Palestinian Authority. The goal was to drastically arm these groups amidst the escalating violence of the Second Intifada (2000-2005), which was characterized by widespread Palestinian attacks, including suicide bombings and armed assaults against Israeli civilians and soldiers.

The seizure of the MV Karine A represented a significant blow to the clandestine arms supply networks operating in the Middle East. It provided concrete evidence of state-sponsored arms trafficking to militant groups and had profound diplomatic and security implications, particularly impacting relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Then-Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat vehemently denied any knowledge or involvement in the shipment, a denial that was met with skepticism by Israel and the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Karine A Affair

What was the primary objective of Operation "Noah's Ark"?

The primary objective was to interdict a large, illicit weapons shipment traveling by sea, thereby preventing sophisticated armaments from reaching Palestinian militant groups in the Gaza Strip and potentially escalating violence during the Second Intifada.

When did the Karine A affair take place?

The Israeli military action, known as the Karine A affair, occurred in January 2002.

What types of weapons were found on the MV Karine A?

The vessel was found to be carrying approximately 50 tons of weaponry, including short-range 107mm Katyusha rockets, advanced antitank missiles (such as Metis and Fagot systems), high explosives (like C4 and Semtex), mortar rounds, sniper rifles, and various small arms with accompanying ammunition.

Who was behind the Karine A weapons shipment?

Intelligence indicated that the weapons originated from Iran, with logistical support from Hezbollah in Lebanon, and were intended for Palestinian militant factions, primarily the Tanzim Force of Fatah, operating within the Gaza Strip.

What was the international impact of the Karine A affair?

The affair led to significant international condemnation of state-sponsored arms trafficking, particularly from the United States. It severely strained relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, casting doubt on the PA's commitment to counter-terrorism and non-violence, despite denials from President Yasser Arafat.