A RECENT report indicates that Russia has provided satellite intelligence to Yemen's Houthi rebels, aiding their attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, reports Business Insider.

This support may have intensified the Houthis' recent strikes, such as the attack on the Greek-flagged tanker MV Sounion, which left the ship ablaze after a drone boat assault.

The vessel, carrying 165,000 tonnes of crude oil, has been flagged by the EU as a serious navigational and environmental risk in the area.

The attacks appear to be a show of support for Palestinians amid escalating violence in Gaza.