China has asked Iran to increase its influence over the Houthis to prevent the military advances of this group along the Red Sea coast and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This request was made after Saudi Arabia approached Beijing for help in controlling the security situation in the region.
Houthi Advances and Security Threats
The Houthis have made significant advances in recent weeks along the Red Sea coast and around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. These movements pose a serious threat to Saudi oil exports and shipping navigation in the area. Iranian sources have reported that Saudi Arabia is seeking China's help to control the Houthis, especially after this group has rapidly moved towards key areas.
Read more: New analysis by Ursa Shipbrokers on changes in the cargo ship market
China's Private Message to Tehran
China has publicly called for calm and dialogue on this issue, but its private message to Tehran has gone beyond public statements. Beijing has asked Iran to use its influence over the Houthis to prevent the escalation of conflict in energy routes. This request comes as China, as the world's second-largest economy, is heavily dependent on the security of these routes.
Iran's response to these requests has emphasized the importance of stability and peace in the region, stating that this stability depends on the end of the U.S. and Israeli-imposed wars on Iran. Chinese officials have not referred to any explicit threats against Iran and have not announced any pressure to lose influence over the Houthis.
Economic and Strategic Impacts
China has been Iran's largest trading partner for over a decade and remains the main buyer of its oil. By 2025, Chinese purchases will account for more than 80 percent of Iran's maritime oil exports. This economic dependency places Tehran in a position where it must balance China's needs with its own interests.
Analysts believe that China is one of the few countries that can pressure Iran to control the Houthis. However, Iran must also consider that any action in this regard could harm its economic interests.
Future Outlook
Given the complexities of Iran-China relations and mutual economic needs, it remains uncertain whether Iran will respond to China's concerns. While China may resist U.S. pressures on Iran, Beijing's interests in the Middle East are not limited to Iran and also include trade relations with other countries.
Read more: Control of ship operational data should be in the owner's hands · U.S. officials meet with Houthi representatives in Oman after advances along the Red Sea coast
