China to track developments in Red Sea, provide support to foreign trade enterprises

China’s Ministry of Commerce says it was closely tracking developments in the Red Sea in response to the escalating situation there and the country will provide support and assistance to foreign trade enterprises.

“It is hoped that all parties concerned will restore and ensure the security of shipping lanes in the Red Sea waters,” a spokesperson for the ministry said in a statement late Thursday.

The ministry said it hopes all parties jointly safeguard the smooth flow of global production and supply chains and the normal order of international trade.

The Houthis have launched dozens of attacks since November on vessels in the Red Sea, in what they claim is an effort to support Palestinians during Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza. However, many of the ships targeted have had no ties to Israel whatsoever.

The attacks are part of a broad response to the Gaza conflict by a so-called Axis of Resistance, which includes the Houthis, Hamas and Hezbollah — all of whom are backed by Iran.

The Houthis, who rally under the banner “Death to America, Death to Israel, Curse on the Jews, Victory to Islam,” have also launched several drones and missiles directly at Israel.