China urges end of 'harassment' of vessels in Red Sea

China on Friday called for an end to harassment of civilian vessels in the Red Sea, after attacks on ships by Huthi rebels. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson called for end to the harassment of civilian vessels, in order to maintain the smooth flow of global production and supply chains and the international trade order.

Some shipping firms are avoiding the crucial trade route, causing delays along international trade routes. And Beijing on Friday emphasized the area was an "important international trade route for goods and energy".The Huthis claimed early on Friday another attack on a US ship after the United States launched fresh strikes on rebel targets the day before.The group has launched numerous attacks in the vital shipping lanes around Yemen.