Failure to do so, warns China, may jeopardize business relations between the two nations. The discussions, centered around the attacks and trade ties, unfolded in recent meetings held in both Beijing and Tehran.
According to anonymous Iranian sources, China's message essentially conveys that any harm to its interests due to Houthi actions would impact its business engagements with Tehran. The attacks, purportedly in support of Palestinians in Gaza, have disrupted a crucial trade route between Asia and Europe, resulting in increased shipping costs and insurance.
Despite the lack of specific comments or threats from Chinese officials regarding potential repercussions for their trading relationship with Iran, Beijing emphasized its disappointment if vessels associated with China were targeted.
China has been Iran's primary trading partner for the past decade, particularly in the oil sector where Chinese refiners bought over 90% of Iran's crude exports last year.
However, the trade relationship is imbalanced, as Iranian oil constitutes only 10% of China's crude imports. The sources indicate that China underscored its dissatisfaction with Tehran in case of any harm to its vessels or interests. Nonetheless, Iran's regional alliances and priorities, spanning Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and the Houthis in Yemen, also influence its decision-making.
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, when questioned about the discussions with Iran, expressed its commitment to promoting regional security and stability in the Middle East.
The ministry declared China as a sincere friend to Middle Eastern countries, supporting their strategic independence and collaboration for resolving regional security issues. As of now, Iran's Foreign Ministry has not provided immediate comments on the matter.
