China presses Iran to help rein in Houthis after Saudi appeal
Summary
China has privately urged Iran to help restrain Yemen’s Houthis after Saudi Arabia appealed to Beijing over the group’s rapid advances near the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The discussions reflect growing concern that Houthi attacks could threaten shipping routes and widen regional tensions.
Key Points
- China privately asked Iran to use its influence over the Houthis after a Saudi appeal to Beijing, according to Iranian sources.
- The Houthis’ advances near the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait have raised fears for shipping and Saudi oil exports.
- Beijing’s public comments have called for restraint and dialogue, but its private message reportedly went further.
- China’s economic ties with Iran and its broader Middle East interests give it leverage, though analysts say that leverage has limits.
