Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General C.Q. Brown, expressed concerns on Friday about the possibility of Russia sending anti-ship missiles to the Iranian-backed Houthis, saying it could “broaden the conflict” and create new complications in the Middle East.
“It would make the situation more complicated if we do decide to give the Houthis that kind of equipment,” General Brown said, although acknowledging that Russia is a sovereign nation free to make its own decisions.
Some security analysts have linked Russia’s possible interest in arming the Houthis to President Vladimir Putin’s desire for “payback” for Ukraine’s attack on Russian vessels in the Black Sea.
US officials are worried about the growing threat from the Houthis, which have been attacking ships in the Red Sea, disrupting global shipping lanes and posing a challenge to US naval operations.
Last month, General Frank McKenzie, former commander of US Central Command, hinted that Russian military cooperation with Iran may have already extended to the Red Sea. Meanwhile, McKenzie’s successor at Central Command has reportedly criticized the lack of a clear US policy for combating the Houthis, saying the country’s restrictive policies limit military options.
US and British military officials have conducted joint operations targeting Houthi positions in Yemen, while condemning their “reckless” attacks on ships. The US is wary of a broader conflict and seeks a more strategic approach.
As chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Brown emphasized his duty to weigh the risks of military escalation while taking actions to address the threat. He added that the US is prepared to act if needed, but will do so thoughtfully to minimize further escalation.
