Saudi Arabia Asks China to Call on Iran for Help

In recent days, Saudi Arabia has approached China due to the rapid advances of Houthi forces in Yemen, requesting that Iran take action to prevent these advances. This request comes as Riyadh has been seeking military support from Washington but has faced setbacks.

Advances of Houthi Forces and Threat to Oil Exports

In recent weeks, Houthi forces have made significant advances, particularly in the coastal areas of the Red Sea and around Bab al-Mandab. These movements have severely impacted Saudi Arabia's oil exports and raised serious concerns for the country's economy. Informed sources report that following the recent advances of the Houthis, Saudi Arabia quickly approached China and asked the country to leverage Iran's influence in Yemen.

Read more: Capture of the Port of Mokha and the Islands of Bab al-Mandab by the Houthis

China's Confidential Message to Tehran

After receiving Saudi Arabia's request, China has privately asked Tehran to work to contain Houthi attacks. This request was specifically made following the recent advances of the Houthis and appears to be a confidential message that goes beyond China's public stance on restraint and dialogue.

It is reported that China has informed Iran to use its influence over the Yemenis to prevent the crisis from spilling over into energy routes that are vital to China's economy. Given that China, as the world's second-largest economy, is dependent on these routes, this request from Beijing seems to be taken very seriously.

Saudi Challenges and Iran's Role

Previously, Saudi Arabia had twice requested military intervention from former U.S. President Donald Trump to counter the threats posed by the Houthis, both times receiving a negative response. Meanwhile, U.S. officials have recently met with Houthi officials in Oman, indicating possible changes in regional policies.

In light of the current situation, it seems that Saudi Arabia is attempting to manage the Yemen crisis by garnering Iran's cooperation through China. This situation reflects changes in relationships among regional countries and their impacts on global policies.

Read more: Shooting at a School in the Philippines Leaves Three Dead · Escalation of Conflicts in Yemen and Italy's Readiness to Protect Bab al-Mandab Strait