Overview

• The Houthis have agreed not to target Russian and Chinese ships sailing through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, following discussions between their diplomats and the militant group's leaders.
• The agreement comes amid a backdrop of increased Houthi missile and drone attacks on international shipping in the region, which have disrupted global trade routes.
• In return for safe passage, Russia and China are expected to offer political support to the Houthis, including potentially blocking resolutions against them at the United Nations Security Council.
• The US and UK have launched strikes against the Houthis in response to their maritime attacks, but the group's activities are reportedly becoming less frequent as their capabilities are degraded.
• The Houthis' campaign in the Red Sea is part of a broader effort to pressure Israel to cease its actions in Gaza, with the group even threatening to expand their operations to the Indian Ocean.