China presses Iran to help rein in Houthis
Dubai: China has privately urged Iran to assist in curbing the actions of the Houthis, following Saudi Arabia's call for Beijing's help after the Yemen-based group's recent military advances, according to Iranian sources familiar with the situation. The Houthis' rapid gains along the Red Sea coast and around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait have exposed Saudi oil exports and shipping routes to risk, prompting Riyadh to turn to China for assistance.
China has publicly advocated for restraint, dialogue, and the restoration of safe navigation, but privately, it has expressed a stronger desire for Iran to use its influence over the Houthis to prevent further conflict from spreading. Beijing seeks Iran's support in maintaining regional stability and preventing energy routes from being disrupted, as China is heavily reliant on trade with the Middle East and the Gulf Cooperation Council.
China's relationship with Iran carries significant economic and strategic importance, and any escalation of regional instability would negatively impact China's interests. However, it remains unclear whether Tehran will comply with China's request, as the relationship between the two countries carries considerable weight for Iran in overcoming its current challenges.
Written by urgent.news from The Economic Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
