China Privately Urges Iran To Restrain Houthi Attacks In Red Sea
· World · Times of India, Financial Times
China has privately requested that Iran use its influence to curb Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The diplomatic intervention follows a direct appeal from Saudi Arabia to Beijing for assistance in protecting regional energy routes. While Beijing has publicly advocated for dialogue, its private message to Tehran highlights concerns over the security of energy supplies vital to the Chinese economy. Iranian officials reportedly responded that regional stability depends on ending the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel. China remains Iran's largest trading partner and primary buyer of oil, accounting for over 80% of its seaborne exports in 2025.
Why it matters
The intervention highlights China's growing role as a mediator in Middle Eastern security to protect its critical energy supply lines, potentially putting pressure on its strategic partnership with Iran.
Read the original report — Times of India
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