US faces threat of Russian-armed Houthis as tensions escalate

Intelligence agencies of U.S. have reportedly warned the Biden administration that Russia might arm the Houthis in Yemen with advanced missiles in retaliation for U.S. support for attacks inside Russia.

According to a Wall Street Journal report based on U.S. officials, this new intelligence assessment followed a letter from General Michael Erik Kurilla, Commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

Broader strategy against Houthis

Kurilla’s letter reportedly criticized U.S. military operations in the region, asserting they have “failed” to deter Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea and recommending a broader approach.

Kurilla suggested an accelerated “whole-of-government” effort, including economic, diplomatic, and potentially stronger military measures against the Houthis to prevent further attacks on maritime vessels.

In response, U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed the possibility of Russia supplying advanced anti-ship missiles to the Iran-backed Houthis. However, details about the intelligence indicating this potential Russian move have not been disclosed.

White House launches covert operation

The report also mentioned that the White House has initiated a covert operation to prevent Moscow from delivering these missiles to the Houthis, who have been targeting ships in the Red Sea for eight months in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin had warned the White House that Moscow might supply weapons to U.S. adversaries in response to U.S. policies on Ukraine, stating at an international economic forum in St. Petersburg, “The response may be asymmetric, and we will consider this.”