Russian Satellites Aid Houthi Strikes on Saudi Energy and Yemen Airports

Key points

• Russian satellites have been positioned over Saudi energy and military sites before and after Houthi attacks since July 2026.
• The Houthis struck Aden International Airport on October 28 to disrupt weapons shipments to Yemeni government forces.
• Iranian military advisers in Yemen are reportedly facilitating the transfer of Russian intelligence to the Houthis.
• The US and Israeli militaries are planning renewed strikes on Iran following the US midterm elections.
• Iranian forces continue to target vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, exacerbating the global energy crisis.

Background

This development follows a period of heightened tensions in the Middle East, including Israeli elections and US-Iran negotiations. The conflict has expanded to include attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with Russia previously providing similar support to the Houthis in 2023 and 2024.

How outlets are covering it

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) and The Critical Threats Project (CTP) emphasize the direct link between Russian satellite imagery and Houthi strikes, citing a Switzerland-based geospatial intelligence firm and AP reports. The Associated Press (AP) corroborates the involvement of Iranian military advisers in Yemen. Just Security and Havana Times highlight the broader context of US and Israeli planning for renewed strikes on Iran, while also noting the impact on global energy markets and the evacuation of US diplomats from Saudi Arabia. The sources generally agree on the strategic intent behind Russian support but differ in emphasis, with ISW focusing on the tactical details of the strikes and Just Security on the geopolitical implications for the US and Israel.

Why it matters

The Russian support for the Houthis is a significant escalation in the Middle East conflict, as it directly impacts global energy markets and the stability of the region. The disruption of Saudi oil exports and the targeting of Yemeni government assets could have far-reaching consequences for international relations and the global economy. The involvement of Iranian military advisers further complicates the situation, as it suggests a coordinated effort to undermine US and its allies' interests in the region.

What to watch

The US and Israeli militaries are expected to resume strikes on Iran after the US midterm elections, potentially targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone arsenals. The Houthis are likely to continue their attacks on Saudi and Yemeni targets, with Russian support. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense, with Iranian forces targeting vessels and warning of a wider response against US regional bases. The outcome of the Israeli elections and the US midterm elections will likely influence the next steps in the conflict.