Russia’s Plans to Arm Houthis Indicates an Attempt to Influence Western Policies, ISW Report Suggests

According to ISW, new information emerged on August 3, 2024, regarding Russia’s recent plans to transfer military equipment to the Houthi rebels in Yemen. This potential move reflects the increasing military cooperation between Russia and Iran and suggests a strategic attempt by Moscow to influence Western policies indirectly.

Reports indicate that Russia was preparing to supply missiles and other military hardware to the Houthis in late July 2024. However, this transfer was reportedly canceled following diplomatic intervention from the United States and Saudi Arabia. Sources from CNN revealed that Russian military officials had traveled to Yemen to advise the Houthis and assist with live-fire exercises, which were later called off.

US officials have expressed uncertainty about whether Saudi objections were the decisive factor in halting the transfer. Nonetheless, Russia’s plans to support the Houthis were reportedly in response to the lifting of certain U.S. restrictions on Ukraine’s use of American-provided weapons. Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously announced that Russia would provide long-range strike capabilities to unspecified groups as a “symmetrical response” to these changes.

The cancellation of the arms transfer underscores the growing military alliance between Russia and Iran. By potentially arming Iranian proxies such as the Houthis, Russia appears to be seeking to challenge Western interests and influence Western decision-making indirectly. This development may complicate Russia’s relationships with countries concerned about its increasing cooperation with Iran.

Overall, Russia’s attempt to support the Houthis highlights its broader strategy of leveraging Iranian alliances to exert pressure on the West, potentially leading to further geopolitical tensions.