Panicky Iran announces tankers on fire in Strait of Hormuz as Houthis impose Saudi naval blockade
Bab el-Mandeb is a narrow waterway linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden through which Saudi oil exports and a substantial share of global shipping pass. Any serious interference at Bab el-Mandeb, coming after months of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, would raise the prospect that both of the region’s major oil export routes could be shut simultaneously.
Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for normal flow in Strait of Hormuz to forestall imminent economic turmoil
On the current situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region, Xi stressed that China calls for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, supports all efforts conducive to restoring peace, and remains committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means.