In Yemen, the Houthis have rapidly advanced along the Red Sea coast, pushing Saudi-affiliated forces out of the area and capturing the strategic port of Al-Mokha. These developments pose a new threat to maritime corridors, especially in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, while Iran remains in control of the Strait of Hormuz.
Change in U.S. Approach
The U.S. government has adopted a new diplomatic path with the Houthis instead of escalating military tensions. This comes as the group was designated a foreign terrorist organization during Donald Trump's presidency. This shift in approach, especially under current circumstances, could be beneficial for China, which seeks to exploit the security vacuums left by the United States in the region.
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The Houthi attacks, which began on September 9, represent the largest advance by the group since the start of the Yemeni civil war in 2014. These attacks have not only brought the port of Al-Mokha under control but have also allowed Houthi forces to access the islands of Perim and Hanish in the Bab-el-Mandeb. This advance will significantly impact the security of Saudi oil exports, especially as the country relies on exports through the Yanbu port in the Red Sea.
New Opportunities for China
Given the current situation, China could capitalize on this scenario by deepening economic and diplomatic relations in the region. According to Fatima Al-Asrar, a researcher and expert on Yemeni developments, this situation reflects the weakness of the U.S. security structure in the Gulf. She also added that the Houthis have informed China and Russia that their ships can pass through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden without being attacked.
News organizations have reported that U.S. officials recently met with Houthi representatives in Oman and assured them that they do not intend to attack American ships and will adhere to the 2025 ceasefire. These developments indicate that China could use these conditions to strengthen its position in the Middle East and seek to establish a regional security architecture.
Additionally, in recent days, reports have emerged regarding Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requesting military assistance from the United States. Meanwhile, the United States has clearly stated that it currently does not intend to intervene militarily and will only provide necessary information. This decision could raise further concerns for Saudi Arabia regarding the limitations of U.S. support.
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