Yemen’s Houthi terrorists have carried out a series of attacks on civilian cargo ships in the Red Sea, prompting recent U.S.-led strikes against the group and raising questions about the stance of the Chinese regime. Although the Chinese government has expressed concern about the escalating tensions in the Red Sea, it has refrained from joining the international condemnation of the Houthis’ actions.
The Red Sea is an important trade route that connects Europe and Asia, with the Suez Canal carrying 12 percent of the world’s trade. Any disruptions or delays in shipping traffic through this area could have a significant impact on the global economy. In response to the attacks, several major shipping companies have suspended Red Sea shipping, opting instead to take a detour via the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, which would lead to increased sailing time and additional costs.
The Chinese regime has refrained from condemning the Houthi attacks and has even appeared to benefit from them. Among the dozens of Red Sea cargo ships attacked by the Houthis, there have been no reports of Chinese ships being targeted. Furthermore, some shipowners have attempted to avoid attacks by showing ties to China in their public profiles. Additionally, the Chinese regime can benefit from an increase in land trade as a result of the blockade of shipping lanes.
There are also indications that China may be implicated in supplying weapons used by the Houthis, as the anti-ship ballistic missiles used in the attacks are similar to those possessed by China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force. Despite the recent U.S.-led strikes against the Houthis, the goal is not to eliminate the group, but to serve as a deterrent.