Chinese officials reportedly are pressuring Iran to rein in attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels on commercial ships in the Red Sea or risk harming their business relations with Beijing. Discussions about the ongoing attacks by the Yemeni group and trade have come up repeatedly during recent meetings in the two countries, four Iranian sources told Reuters.
When China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs was asked about the matter, it said "China is a sincere friend of the countries of the Middle East and is committed to promoting regional security and stability and seeking common development and prosperity.