China Privately Urges Iran to Curb Houthi Attacks at Saudi Request
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
China has privately pressed Iran to help restrain Yemen Houthi forces following a request from Saudi Arabia, Reuters reported citing three informed sources. The development comes as Iranian-backed Houthi forces have carried out major military attacks on Saudi Arabia in recent days, endangering Red Sea shipping lanes critical to China energy imports. Beijing has been Iran largest trading partner for more than 10 consecutive years and purchased over 80 percent of Iran seaborne oil exports in 2025, averaging approximately 1.4 million barrels per day. Chinese officials conveyed their message both publicly through diplomatic statements and privately to Tehran, with unclear whether the appeal was delivered during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi visit to China on September 16.
Key Points
- Saudi Arabia appealed to Beijing for assistance after the Houthis launched military strikes against the kingdom last week
- China privately asked Iran to use its influence to curb the Houthis and prevent further Red Sea escalation
- The private messages were more direct than China public calls for restraint, dialogue and restored safe navigation
- China purchased approximately 1.4 million barrels per day of Iranian oil in 2025, representing over 80 percent of Iran seaborne exports
- Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply to just 3 commercial vessels on September 17, with Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb traffic also declining
- Sources indicated China made no threats to Iran and gave no indication of economic pressure if Tehran refused the request
- Iran responded that regional peace depends on the United States and Israel ending hostilities against Iran
Why It Matters
This episode illustrates China attempt to leverage its unique economic position with Iran to manage regional security crises, even as tensions between Tehran and its adversaries threaten vital trade routes. With the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait both facing potential disruption, Hong Kong could face higher oil prices and shipping insurance costs, given the city reliance on imported energy and its role as a major trade and financial hub connected to global supply chains .
This episode illustrates China attempt to leverage its unique economic position with Iran to manage regional security crises, even as tensions between Tehran and its adversaries threaten vital trade routes. With the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait both facing potential disruption, Hong Kong could face higher oil prices and shipping insurance costs, given the city reliance on imported energy and its role as a major trade and financial hub connected to global supply chains .