Russia is aiding Yemen’s Houthi rebels with satellite data to target vessels connected to Israel and Western allies in the Red Sea, according to Digi24
Aid Missile and Drone Strikes
Coordinated through Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, this support has intensified Houthi attacks, prompting the U.S. to bolster maritime security in the region.
The Houthis, who control significant areas of Yemen, have escalated attacks on Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, claiming to act in solidarity with Hamas.
According to reports, Russian data — relayed through Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) members stationed with the Houthis — has been used to aid missile and drone strikes on Western and allied vessels.
Disruptions to commercial traffic have spurred the U.S. to organize an international maritime coalition for protection.
Putin Blames the U.S. for Escalating Gaza
This Russian support marks a shift in Moscow’s Middle East policy, as President Vladimir Putin has grown closer to Iran while distancing Russia from Israel.
Putin’s recent comments blaming the U.S. and Israel for escalating the Gaza conflict add to this realignment. The relationship with Iran allows Russia a strong foothold in the region as it faces diplomatic isolation and sanctions following the Ukraine invasion.
The report also details Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout’s recent attempt to sell $10 million worth of small arms to the Houthis after his release from a U.S. prison.
Though it’s unclear if the Kremlin backed Bout’s deal, his activities underscore increased Russian-Houthi cooperation.
As Houthi attacks continue, vessels in the Red Sea often turn off tracking signals, complicating efforts to monitor them.
Russian oil tankers transporting goods via “ghost fleets” owned by shell companies have also been targeted, showing how commercial and political interests intersect amid escalating regional tensions.
