On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Reuters reported that Iran is mediating with Russia to supply the Houthi group, which is internationally designated as a terrorist organization, with anti-ship missiles. This development comes as the group has been launching attacks on international shipping in the sea since November of the previous year.

According to three Western and regional sources cited by the agency, “Iran is facilitating secret talks between Russia and the Houthis to transfer anti-ship missiles to the armed group,” highlighting the growing relationship between Tehran and Moscow.

Additionally, seven other sources indicated that “Russia has not yet decided to transfer the Yakhont missiles, also known as P-800 Oniks.”

Experts have commented that the Yakhont missiles would enable the armed group to strike commercial vessels in the Red Sea with greater precision, thereby increasing the threat to U.S. and European warships protecting commercial shipping lanes.

Since October, the Houthi group has continued its missile and drone attacks against commercial shipping in the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Aden. These assaults have led to rising marine insurance costs and prompted many international shipping companies to opt for the significantly longer route around the southern tip of Africa.

In response to the Houthi threat and to safeguard maritime navigation, the United States formed a multinational coalition in December 2023. U.S. forces have also conducted periodic strikes against Houthi military targets.