China putting efforts to de-escalate tensions in Red Sea
The largest exporter in the world, China, says it is extremely concerned about the Red Sea tensions that have disrupted international trade by compelling many shippers to avoid the Suez Canal. China has been in “close communication with all parties concerned and making positive efforts to de-escalate” the situation in which Iran-backed Houthi rebels have attacked international ships with missiles, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a daily briefing on Wednesday.
“China calls for a halt to the harassment and attacks on civilian ships and urges all relevant parties to avoid fanning flames in the area and jointly ensure the safety and security of the route in the Red Sea,” Wang said.
Houthis’ attacks in Red Sea
At least 34 attacks on shipping through the waterways leading up to Egypt’s Suez Canal, a crucial route for energy and cargo coming from Asia and the Middle East onward to Europe, have been carried out by the Houthis, who are supported by Iran, since November.
The Houthis, a Shiite rebel group, attribute their attacks to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Since 2015, they have been in conflict with a coalition led by Saudi Arabia that supports Yemen’s exiled government and have controlled the country’s capital, Sanaa. But the ships they’ve been aiming for have fewer and fewer connections to Israel, if any at all.
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China concerned about the recent escalation of the Red Sea situation
“We are deeply concerned about the recent escalation of the Red Sea situation. The Red Sea is an important international trade route for goods and energy,” Wang said.
Wang also referenced the Gaza conflict, linking it to the Red Sea tensions, saying, “The priority now is to end the fighting in Gaza as soon as possible to avoid further escalation and prevent the situation from getting out of control.”
“China is willing to work with all parties to cool down the situation and maintain security and stability in the Red Sea,” Wang said.
