China calls for respect for the sovereignty of Gulf states and the security of international navigation

China reaffirmed on Friday the necessity of respecting the sovereignty and security of the various Gulf states, and of ensuring safe navigation through international sea lanes, in the wake of the Houthi militia’s targeting of a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea.

Xinhua News Agency quoted Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a press conference as saying that China calls on all concerned parties to exercise restraint, continue to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, and avoid taking actions that could exacerbate tensions, thereby facilitating a swift restoration of peace and stability in the region.

It is worth noting that the Yemeni Houthi militia announced last Monday the imposition of a “maritime navigation ban” on ships traveling to and from Saudi Arabia, amid renewed US-Iranian escalation. This move could disrupt alternative export routes for Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, aside from the Strait of Hormuz.