Red Sea Crisis: Is NSA Jake Sullivan set to meet Chinese diplomat Wang Yi to discuss Houthis?

Red Sea Crisis: Among the key topics on the agenda is the escalating situation involving the Yemeni Houthi rebels and their assaults on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea region.

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Mayank Kasyap
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Red Sea Crisis: US National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, is en route to Thailand for discussions with senior Chinese foreign policy officials, as reported by sources familiar with the situation. The meetings are set to address various security concerns, including recent attacks by Yemeni Houthi rebels on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, as reported by Wall Street Journal.

Red Sea Crisis: High-level talks between Sullivan, Wang Yi

Individuals with direct insight into the matter disclosed that Sullivan is scheduled to hold discussions with top Chinese foreign policy figure, Wang Yi. Among the key topics on the agenda is the escalating situation involving the Yemeni Houthi rebels and their assaults on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea region.

Red Sea Crisis: Appeals to China for assistance in Iran-related matters

Since the onset of the Gaza conflict, officials from the Biden administration have been urging Beijing to relay messages to Iran, advocating for measures to prevent a wider escalation of hostilities. While acknowledging China's engagement with Iran, U.S. officials remain uncertain about the specific content of these dialogues.

According to U.S. authorities, Iran has been accused of providing the Houthi rebels with weaponry, financial support, and other forms of assistance. In response to queries regarding China's potential intervention in curbing Iran-backed Houthi militia attacks in the Red Sea, White House National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, reiterated the U.S.'s desire for China to exert pressure on Tehran.

Red Sea Crisis: Kirby stresses China's role in mitigating conflict

Kirby emphasised during a recent media briefing that China possesses significant influence over Iran and has the capacity to engage in meaningful discussions with Iranian leaders. The U.S. administration views China's involvement as pivotal in addressing the proliferation of arms and ammunition to the Houthi insurgents.

“We would welcome a constructive role by China, using the influence and the access that we know they have, to try to help stem the flow of weapons and munitions to the Houthis,” Kirby stated.

The forthcoming discussions between Sullivan and Wang Yi hold strategic importance in navigating the complexities of regional security dynamics and fostering cooperation between the U.S. and China on critical geopolitical issues. Majorly over the role of Yemen's Houthi rebel group who have increased its attacks in the Red Sea over the cargo ships of US-based businesses and organisations.