- October 24, 2024
- 11:33 pm
- Middle East
Russia has provided targeted intelligence to the Houthis in Yemen, who attacked Western ships in the Red Sea earlier this year with missiles and drones. Reported on October 24, 2024 The Wall Street Journalthese attacks threatened the security of international trade.
The Houthis began their attacks late last year amid the Gaza conflict. They soon began using Russian satellite data to expand their attacks. The data was transmitted through members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps who were in Yemen.
Implications for global trade
The Houthi attacks have disrupted one of the world's most important shipping routes. According to The Wall Street Journalmore than 100 ships have been attacked since November 2023. This caused significant disruption to global trade as some ships were forced to reroute.
| Month | Percentage reduction in tanker traffic through Bab el-Mandeb |
|---|---|
| October 2023 | 0% (Baseline) |
| August 2024 | 77% |
Russia's role in destabilization
According to The Wall Street Journalsupport for the Houthis demonstrates how far Russian President Putin is willing to go to undermine the Western order. Russia supports Iran and its allies in the region, including the Houthis, which the United States considers a terrorist group.
Experts note that Russia is trying to create instability in different regions, diverting the world's attention from Ukraine. According to Alexander Gabuev from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center:
“For Russia, any aggravation is beneficial, as it diverts attention from Ukraine and forces the United States to distribute resources.”
Strengthening ties with autocracies
Russia is also seeking to strengthen ties with autocracies such as Iran and North Korea. These countries provide Russia with ammunition, drones and missiles. North Korea has sent about 3,000 soldiers to Russia for training, according to South Korean and U.S. officials.
This cooperation not only helps Russia on the battlefield, but also enhances its strategic influence in two key regions – the Middle East and Asia.
Relations with Israel
The Wall Street Journal stresses that Russia's actions highlight a tectonic shift in its strategy in the Middle East. Putin has strengthened ties with Iran, while relations with Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have deteriorated. Moscow criticizes the United States and Israel over the conflict in Gaza.
Threat to international security
The United States has expressed concern about a possible escalation of the conflict if Russia provides the Houthis with more powerful weapons. Already, attacks are complicating the protection of ships in the region. Last December, the United States created a multinational coalition to escort ships through Bab el-Mandeb.
The US military has struck Houthi arsenals, and the cost of protecting shipping has exceeded $1 billion. The Wall Street Journal emphasizes that further actions by Russia could worsen the situation.
Conclusion
Russia actively supports the destabilization of regions where the United States and its allies are opposed. The Houthis continue their attacks, threatening global trade, and Russia's actions remain under global scrutiny.
Quotes from the source:
- “Support for the Houthis demonstrates how far Putin is willing to go to undermine the Western order,” The Wall Street Journal.
- “For Russia, any aggravation is beneficial, since it diverts attention from Ukraine and forces the United States to distribute resources,” Alexander Gabuev, The Wall Street Journal.
