China Asks Iran to Restrain Houthis Amid Red Sea Shipping Threats

China has privately urged Iran to help curb the Houthi movement in Yemen following a request for assistance from Saudi Arabia, according to informed Iranian sources cited by Reuters. The appeal came after the Houthis made rapid advances along the Red Sea coast and near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, significantly increasing threats to Saudi oil exports and global shipping.

While China publicly called for restraint, dialogue, and the restoration of shipping security, its private communication was more direct. Beijing wants Tehran to leverage its influence over the Houthis to prevent further escalation of the conflict, which could disrupt vital energy routes for China, the world's second-largest economy.

Sources familiar with the discussions, who spoke anonymously, did not specify how China conveyed its message or if it was discussed during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's visit to China. They also stated that China did not issue direct threats or imply economic pressure on Iran if it failed to act.

Tehran reportedly responded that regional stability and peace are contingent upon an end to the war waged by the United States and Israel against Iran.