Archive · 29 Jul 2026
China Negotiates with Houthis for Red Sea Shipping
China has been talking directly to the Houthi group in Yemen to make sure their big oil ships can safely sail through the Red Sea.
The Houthis have said they won't let ships go to Saudi ports, which has made it hard for oil to get to places like China.
China is trying to keep the oil flowing by talking to the Houthis and making special deals for each ship.
Some ships have changed their routes because they're worried about being attacked.
The Houthis have good relations with China and have worked together before on oil shipments.
China has held direct talks with Yemen's Houthi movement to ensure safe passage for its tankers through the Red Sea.
The Houthis declared a blockade on July 20, targeting Saudi ports and expanding attacks on tankers.
China is seeking to keep oil exports flowing from Saudi Arabia's Red Sea terminals, principally Yanbu.
At least four tankers have successfully transited Bab el-Mandeb since the Houthis announced their restrictions.
The Houthis have threatened to attack vessels tied to Saudi ports, causing some tankers to change course.
- Who
- China and Yemen's Houthi movement
- What
- Direct talks to ensure safe passage for Chinese tankers through the Red Sea
- When
- After the Houthis declared a blockade on July 20
- Where
- Red Sea, specifically the Bab el-Mandeb strait
- Why
- To maintain oil supplies and economic stability amid Houthi restrictions
China's Perspective
Houthi's Perspective
Safe Passage for Tankers
China's Perspective
China seeks to ensure safe passage for its tankers through the Red Sea to maintain oil supplies.
Houthi's Perspective
Houthis demand guarantees and potentially attack vessels tied to Saudi ports.
Geopolitical Influence
China's Perspective
China aims to secure its energy supplies and maintain economic stability.
Houthi's Perspective
Houthis use their control over the Red Sea to pressure Saudi Arabia and its allies.
- Date of Houthi Blockade Announcement
- July 20
- Key Strait
- Bab el-Mandeb
- Saudi Ports Affected
- Yanbu
- Tankers Cleared
- At least four
- Time Difference (Yanbu to Asia via Bab el-Mandeb vs. Suez Canal)
- 16 days vs. 50 days
