Beijing: (RightNow) China has directly contacted the Houthi group, requesting a guarantee for the safe passage of its oil tankers through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. This move follows the Houthis’ announcement to disrupt maritime traffic linked to Saudi ports.

According to a Reuters report, the Houthis have so far granted separate approvals for each oil tanker heading to China. Iran has also been informed about these measures.

China aims to ensure uninterrupted oil exports from Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu port to compensate for the global oil supply affected by the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

It is important to note that continued tensions in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab could significantly impact global trade and shipping costs, as these are among the world’s key trade routes.

Experts have warned that if the Houthis act on their threats, it could negatively affect the global economy.