Russia, Iran, and the Houthis: The Impacts of Moscow’s Recruitment of Yemeni Mercenaries

Recent reports reveal that Russia has successfully recruited Yemeni men through its alliance with the Houthi rebels, promising them high salaries and Russian citizenship. This move serves to replenish Russian forces in Ukraine while financially aiding the Houthis and enhancing their military capabilities. The relationship gained traction after significant regional events and poses new threats to international shipping and U.S. interests, making it crucial for U.S. allies to monitor this developing alliance.

Recent reports indicate that the Russian armed forces have successfully recruited hundreds of Yemeni men, leveraging their relationship with the Houthi rebels of Yemen. These recruits were promised lucrative salaries and the possibility of obtaining Russian citizenship for roles primarily in engineering and security. They were transferred to Russia via a Houthi-affiliated company, subsequently becoming incorporated into the Russian military and sent to the front lines amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This recruitment mechanism benefits the Houthis financially while simultaneously providing training for Yemeni men under their influence within Russia’s military framework.

The recruitment of Yemeni fighters represents a more significant development in the evolving relationship between the Houthis and Russia, particularly following the Hamas assault on Israel on October 7, 2023. The Houthis are seeking to enhance their role within Iran’s “Axis of Resistance,” a coalition opposing Western interests in the region. Notably, reports suggest that Iran is mediating a deal that could allow Russia to transfer advanced weaponry, specifically P-800 Oniks anti-ship missiles, to the Houthis. Although no confirmed transfers have occurred, U.S. Special Envoy for Yemen Timothy Lenderking has acknowledged active discussions regarding potential deals including the transfer of small arms valued at ten million dollars.

The partnership with the Houthis presents multiple advantages for Moscow beyond merely addressing personnel losses. By supplying the Houthis with military equipment and intelligence, Russia catalyzes destabilizing maritime operations in the Red Sea, thereby exerting pressure on Western commercial interests and drawing away U.S. military resources from Ukraine. The burgeoning relationship also establishes Russia as a critical player among key regional stakeholders, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, who are looking to resolve the Yemen conflict. While Moscow has longstanding economic ties with these Gulf states, it now has the potential to employ its association with the Houthis as leverage against them, particularly regarding their diplomatic relations with the U.S.

It is imperative to view Russia’s alliance with the Houthis as a pragmatic partnership rather than a solid strategic alliance. Moscow is likely to continue its support as long as the Houthis refrain from directly jeopardizing Saudi or Emirati interests and remain valuable in undermining U.S. influence in the region. Simultaneously, Russia has been persisting in its diplomatic efforts with rival factions in Yemen, such as the Southern Transitional Council, which opposes the Houthis.

The increasing cooperation between the Houthis and Russia raises alarms for the United States and its allies, especially regarding the potential enhancement of the Houthis’ capacity to threaten international maritime security and U.S. interests in the region. It is noteworthy that even without advanced weapon systems, the Houthis have significantly disrupted maritime commerce, leading to a 66 percent decrease in traffic through the Suez Canal over the past year. An influx of sophisticated weaponry, such as the P-800 Oniks missiles, could exacerbate this situation further, while imparting military manufacturing expertise to the Houthis would fortify their self-sufficiency, complicating regional security dynamics.

The dynamics between the Houthis, Russia, and Iran illuminate a broader strategic framework among U.S. adversaries, fundamentally challenging U.S. and allied interests in the region and necessitating a reevaluation of current diplomatic and military strategies.

The topic centers on the strategic and military relationship that has developed between Russia and the Houthis of Yemen, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and heightened tensions in the Middle East following significant attacks such as the Hamas raid on Israel in October 2023. Amidst their struggles with personnel shortages in Ukraine, the Russian military’s recruitment of Yemeni fighters reflects a broader trend involving migrant soldiers from countries such as Nepal, India, and North Korea. Furthermore, the growing ties between the Houthis and Russia symbolize a shift in regional alliances, with potential implications for U.S. foreign policy and international maritime security.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Russia and the Houthis constitutes a strategic maneuver that benefits both parties amidst their respective geopolitical challenges. For Russia, it signifies an opportunity to exert influence in the Middle East and counter U.S. hegemony while simultaneously addressing recruitment shortfalls in Ukraine. Conversely, the Houthis gain military infrastructure support and financial incentives, potentially elevating their operational capabilities. This relationship warrants significant attention from the international community, particularly regarding its implications for security in maritime routes and geopolitical stability.

Original Source: www.atlanticcouncil.org