Russian Intelligence Allegedly Aids Houthi Attacks on Western Ships

Russian intelligence officials have reportedly supplied Iran-backed Houthi rebels with geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) data. This information is purportedly used for strategic planning and operational decision-making in attacks on Western vessels in the southern Red Sea, a critical maritime chokepoint.

The Wall Street Journal Report

According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the Houthis began their attacks in late 2020 over the Gaza war. As their strikes expanded, they began using Russian satellite data. This information was allegedly passed through members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), who were embedded with the Houthis in Yemen. However, the report did not provide specifics about the GEOINT data that Russia supplied to the IRGC/Houthis for attack and reconnaissance missions in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. It also did not specify whether the Russians and/or IRGC used unmanned aerial vehicles to provide the Houthis with high-resolution imagery or real-time data streams for tracking commercial vessels or western warships.

Implications of Russian Assistance

The alleged Russian assistance may explain the Houthis' expanded threat coverage of missiles and drone attacks across the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Since November 2023, the Houthis have reportedly hit over 100 ships in the region, sinking two and hijacking another.

Shift in Russian Strategy

The Wall Street Journal noted that Russian assistance in the Middle East signifies a significant shift in its strategy. Russia has strengthened ties with Iran while distancing itself from its longstanding relationship with Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Impact of Biden-Harris Administration's Foreign Policy

The foreign policy of the Biden-Harris administration has been criticized for leaving the Middle East in turmoil. The administration's perceived leniency towards the Houthis has allegedly led to major supply chain disruptions in global shipping. Hundreds of container ships have reportedly been diverted around the Cape of Good Hope, straining container supplies and increasing shipping costs.

Global Political Climate

The current global political climate is fraught with tension. Critics argue that despite warnings that former President Trump would bring the world to the brink of nuclear disaster, the world under the Biden-Harris administration is closer than ever to World War III. Conflicts are escalating in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and there is growing concern that China could seize Taiwan at any moment.

Bottom Line

The alleged involvement of Russian intelligence in aiding Houthi attacks on Western vessels is a significant development. This situation underscores the complexity of global politics and the potential for escalating conflicts. What are your thoughts on this matter? Please share this article with your friends and consider signing up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.