RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
China has condemned reported attacks by Yemen’s Houthi group on Saudi Arabian airports and energy facilities, warning that further hostilities could worsen instability in the Middle East.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed Beijing’s concern during a regular press briefing on Monday, urging all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic solutions.
Mao said China opposed attacks resulting in civilian casualties and was concerned about the escalation of hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia.
She called on the parties involved to avoid further confrontation and resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiations.
The statement followed reports of attacks targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and infrastructure associated with Saudi Arabia’s energy industry.
According to initial accounts, an attack on Sunday left one person dead and 11 others injured at the airport, following an earlier incident that reportedly disrupted operations.
Separate reports concerning Saturday’s attack indicated a substantially higher casualty toll of 12 deaths and 309 injuries.
The differing figures have not been independently reconciled, and it remains unclear whether they relate to separate incidents or different assessments of the same series of attacks.
The reported incidents have heightened concerns about civilian safety, aviation operations and the security of critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis, who control significant areas of Yemen, have been involved in a prolonged conflict with forces aligned with the country’s internationally recognised government.
Saudi Arabia has historically supported the internationally recognised Yemeni government, making renewed hostilities between Riyadh and the Houthis a significant regional security concern.
Reports of attacks on oil installations and shipping activities in the Red Sea have also raised concerns about possible disruptions to international energy supplies and commercial transportation.
China’s latest position reflects its call for de-escalation and negotiations as tensions continue across the region.
Beijing urged the parties to prioritise peaceful engagement and avoid further actions that could threaten regional security and stability.
