China Negotiates Safe Passage for Tankers Through Houthi Blockade

The Government of China has initiated direct negotiations with Yemen's Houthi movement to ensure the safe passage of oil tankers carrying Saudi crude through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. These efforts follow a July 20 blockade declared by the Houthis targeting vessels linked to Saudi Arabian and Emirati ports, specifically affecting terminals like Yanbu. Beijing is attempting to secure these energy flows to offset supply gaps created by Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Reports indicate that Chinese officials are providing the Houthis with lists of ships and obtaining individual approval for each vessel before entry. At least four tankers have successfully navigated the waterway since the blockade began. Both China and the Houthis have kept Iran informed of these specific shipping arrangements.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, the Houthis continue to warn that vessels using Saudi ports remain legitimate targets. This has led some tankers, including the New Champion and New Prime operated by Associated Maritime Co HK, to change course or reroute around Africa. While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China has not formally confirmed the direct negotiations, spokesperson Mao Ning urged all parties to resolve conflicts through dialogue and de-escalate the situation in the Red Sea.