China Urges Iran to Rein in Houthi Rebels Amid Regional Tensions
China has internally urged Iran to control the Houthi rebels in Yemen at the request of Saudi Arabia, according to Reuters sources. The move comes after the Houthis intensified military activities in the coastal areas of the Red Sea and around Bab al-Mandeb, further endangering Saudi Arabia's oil exports and international maritime traffic.
Beijing has publicly called for reducing regional tensions, advancing dialogue, and restoring safe passage in maritime routes, but its internal urging is stronger than its public statements. Sources claim that China urged Iran to use its influence over the Houthis to prevent further escalation of the crisis in the Red Sea and energy supply routes.
Tehran responded to China's request by stating that the US-Israeli war against Iran must end first for regional stability and peace, according to Iranian sources. The Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized that regional tensions should not spread to Yemen and the Red Sea, and that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation.