Russian satellites linked to Houthi and militia strikes on Saudi Arabia
A private geospatial intelligence firm, AURORAH, says Russian military and government satellites orbited above 40 Houthi and Iraqi militia strike sites in Saudi Arabia from 1 July to 19 Oct, and reports a match in every case. The firm, led by founder Nawaf Obaid, identified 72 Russian reconnaissance satellites among more than 11,000 orbiting spacecraft. The targets reportedly included energy facilities and military bases, among them an attack that damaged an Italian fighter jet at King Fahd Air Base. Saudi Arabia's deputy foreign minister for public diplomacy, Rayed Krimly, said Iran and the Houthis receive intelligence from elements in Russia and China. Russia has said it is ready to mediate between Iran and the United States if asked.
Key facts
- Russia and Iran signed a strategic partnership agreement in 2025 that includes countering shared threats.
- Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline was shut down immediately after an attack in September.
- Russia said it would be willing to receive Iran's enriched uranium if it remains a sticking point.
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Why it matters
Reports of Russian satellite support for strikes on Saudi targets could widen the regional conflict and affect US-Russia diplomacy.
What changed
First published from Meduza, The Independent, The Times of India, The Moscow Times and Al-Monitor