Suryaa Now International Desk: Saudi Arabia has held diplomatic discussions with China over escalating attacks by Yemen's Houthi movement, as tensions across the Middle East continue to intensify amid the ongoing Iran war.
Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud discussed the security situation and efforts to reduce regional tensions with Chinese Middle East envoy Zhai Jun. The talks come as the Iran-aligned Houthi group claims to have targeted Saudi energy infrastructure and military installations.
Yemen's Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for attacks targeting several strategic Saudi facilities, including oil infrastructure, military assets and Saudi Aramco installations.
The group has specifically claimed attacks on a pumping station along Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline and an oil facility in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.
Saudi Arabia has been relying increasingly on its East-West pipeline to transport crude oil to Yanbu, bypassing the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, where the ongoing conflict has disrupted maritime traffic.
Saudi-led coalition forces have reported intercepting Houthi drones heading towards Riyadh and the kingdom's Eastern Province.
The latest developments have raised concerns about the security of Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure and the potential impact on international oil supplies.
China's diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia highlights growing international concern over the widening conflict.
Beijing has been pushing for regional stability and diplomatic solutions as military confrontations threaten important shipping routes and energy supplies.
Saudi Arabia's discussions with the Chinese envoy focused on Houthi attacks and possible measures to prevent further escalation.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington remains prepared to launch additional military strikes against Iran if necessary.
Trump claimed that the United States could severely damage Iran's energy infrastructure, bridges and manufacturing capabilities within a short period. He also said that several Gulf nations had urged Washington to avoid launching another large-scale offensive for the time being.
His remarks have added uncertainty to diplomatic efforts aimed at containing the conflict.
The continuing confrontation involving Iran, Israel, the United States and Iran-aligned groups is increasing security risks across the Middle East.
The latest Houthi claims against Saudi energy facilities have added another dimension to the crisis, particularly because of their potential implications for global oil markets and commercial shipping.
With Saudi Arabia seeking diplomatic support from China and Washington maintaining military pressure on Tehran, the coming days could prove crucial for regional security and international energy supplies.
Source: Al Jazeera; additional reporting from Reuters.