China has held direct discussions with Yemen's Houthi movement in an effort to let its tankers pass through the southern Red Sea without being targeted, according to the report. The talks point to a focused attempt by Beijing to protect its shipping movements in a tense maritime corridor.
The report says China was among the first countries to reach out to the Houthis directly about vessel transits through Bab el-Mandeb. That strait lies at the southern end of the Red Sea, with Yemen on its eastern side, making it a critical route for ships moving through the region.
The Houthis, described in the report as an Iran-aligned militia, have become a key factor in Red Sea shipping security. China's outreach suggests it is seeking practical assurances for its tankers as concerns over attacks and disruption continue around the waterway.
The development also highlights how governments are turning to direct contact to manage risks around Bab el-Mandeb. For China, the talks appear aimed at keeping tanker traffic moving through one of the region's most sensitive sea passages near Yemen.
