Al Jazara
روایت خاورمیانه 
China has privately requested Iran to use its influence over the Houthis in Yemen to contain this group. This request came after Saudi Arabia sought assistance from China due to the rapid advance of the Houthis along the Red Sea coast and around the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.
Developments in the Region
On Friday, September 18, three Iranian sources, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, reported that Saudi Arabia is concerned about the status of its oil exports and shipping, which is why it has sent a request for help to China. Iranian sources say that Beijing's message to Tehran goes beyond China's public and open positions on restraint and ensuring maritime security.
Read more: Houthi Missile Attack on King Fahd Industrial Port in Saudi Arabia
Iran's Response to China's Request
Beijing has advised Iran to use its influence over the Houthis to prevent the escalation of conflicts into energy transportation routes. These routes are of great importance to China, as the second-largest economy in the world. Iranian sources also indicated that Tehran's response to this request emphasizes the importance of stability and peace in the region as a prerequisite for ending the wars of the U.S. and Israel against Iran.
At the same time, China has not issued any threats to pressure Iran if it does not cooperate with the Houthis. The Chinese Foreign Ministry has also emphasized the need to prevent an increase in regional tensions in response to media inquiries and has called for resolving disputes through dialogue and negotiation.
Common Interests of China and Iran
For over a decade, China has been Iran's largest trading partner and main buyer of its oil. According to data analysis company information, over 80% of Iran's maritime oil exports will be sent to China by 2025. China's average daily purchase from Iran is estimated at about 1.4 million barrels of oil.
A senior Western diplomat in the region also noted that Beijing is one of the few countries that can still pressure Iran to contain the Houthis. The Houthis, as one of the groups supported by Iran, began their activities against Saudi Arabia's religious influence in the 1990s and are recognized as part of the "Resistance Axis."
Prospects for Iran-China Relations
In 2023, China mediated the agreement to resume relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which had been tense for several years. However, China's influence in the region has limitations, and criticisms in Iran regarding China's investments compared to those in the Gulf Arab countries continue.
Analysts believe it remains to be seen whether China will take action to fulfill its requests. The seriousness of Beijing in using its influence over Iran will determine whether it can effectively leverage its influence to contain the Houthis.
Read more: Increasing Concerns Over Women's Murders in Akruloni with Discovery of Ninth Victim's Body · The U.S. Approved Sale of 48 F-35 Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia
