Saudi Arabia seeks China’s help over Houthi advances, Red Sea tensions
The development highlights Beijing’s growing diplomatic role in the Middle East, particularly its ability to maintain relations with both Saudi Arabia and Iran amid heightened regional tensions.
Saudi Arabia has reportedly sought China’s assistance as advances by Yemen’s Houthi movement around the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait heighten concerns over regional security and vital energy routes.
According to a Reuters report citing anonymous Iranian sources, Beijing has privately urged Tehran to use its influence to rein in the Houthis and help ease tensions around the strategic waterways.
China has not publicly confirmed the reported communication with Iran.
The development highlights Beijing’s growing diplomatic role in the Middle East, particularly its ability to maintain relations with both Saudi Arabia and Iran amid heightened regional tensions.
The Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb are strategically important shipping routes, linking the Middle East and Asia with Europe and carrying significant volumes of global trade and energy supplies.
The reported Saudi request and China’s alleged intervention come as regional powers continue to seek diplomatic and security measures to contain the wider impact of Houthi activities.
