China Deploys Envoys to Middle East Amid US Strike Threats

The Government of China is deploying special envoys to the Middle East, the Gulf, the Red Sea, and the Horn of Africa to facilitate dialogue and establish a sustainable ceasefire. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun announced the initiative on October 27, citing deep concern over protracted hostilities and the risk of conflict spilling over into the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. This diplomatic push follows a meeting in Beijing between Chinese and Djiboutian foreign ministers, who agreed that Middle East stability is essential for security in the Horn of Africa.

These efforts coincide with a surge in regional diplomatic activity. On October 26, officials from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan met in Tehran to de-escalate tensions. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty subsequently held a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi to discuss containing the crisis. Simultaneously, the Egyptian parliament authorized President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to take measures to defend Saudi Arabia against external attacks amid Houthi hostilities.

The diplomatic outreach occurs against a backdrop of heightened military risk. U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the United States may strike Iran again, referencing the February 28 "Epic Fury" operation. Trump stated, "We may do another little Epic Fury."