China Says Gaza Peace Opens Way to De-escalation in Red Sea

China said a lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip could pave the way for full de-escalation in the Red Sea and stressed the stability of the closely interconnected region.

The statement was made by Chinese Ambassador Fu Chong in a speech at a UN Security Council meeting on Yemen on Thursday, February 12.

In a transcript published on the Chinese government's official website, he urged the international community to intensify efforts towards a political solution to the protracted conflict in Yemen.

"The situation in Yemen and the Red Sea is closely linked to the overall situation in the Middle East. Only a sincere, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire in Gaza can really ease the situation in the Red Sea," he told the Security Council.

He also called for full compliance with the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, urging a cessation of all attacks that violate the agreement, ensuring unhindered humanitarian assistance to the region, and encouraging the implementation of a two-state solution.

China considers that the conflict in the Gaza Strip has triggered tensions in the Red Sea, which has a direct impact on the security situation in Yemen. Therefore, the stability of Yemen and the Red Sea cannot be separated from the war in Gaza.

Fu stressed that Beijing would continue to work with the international community to promote a political solution to the Yemeni crisis as well as restore peace and stability in the Middle East.

"China supports efforts to maintain the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Yemen, and calls on all parties to resolve differences through political dialogue, achieve reconciliation as soon as possible, and immediately start economic reconstruction," he added.

Highlighting the humanitarian crisis, Fu said that about 18 million Yemenis face a serious threat of famine. He also urged increased funding for UN aid agencies and stronger protection for civilians and humanitarian workers.