US Accuses Chinese Satellite Firm of Supporting Huthi Attacks on Red Sea Shipping

The United States has accused a Chinese satellite company of helping Yemen’s Huthi rebels carry out attacks on American interests, marking a new flashpoint in the already tense situation in the Red Sea and surrounding regions. According to the US State Department, Chang Guang Satellite Technology Company, a Chinese firm, has been providing support to the Huthis, who have targeted international shipping routes since November 2023.

The Huthis, an Iran-backed rebel group in Yemen, began attacking vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. These attacks have disrupted global trade, forcing many ships to reroute around southern Africa instead of using the Suez Canal—a vital waterway responsible for about 12% of global shipping traffic.

Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the State Department, stated that the satellite company was “directly supporting Iran-backed Huthi terrorist attacks on US interests.” While she initially did not elaborate on the kind of assistance provided, she later indicated that the company was offering satellite imagery to the rebels. This imagery could potentially help the Huthis identify and target commercial or military vessels in the region.

Bruce also criticized Beijing, saying China’s continued support for the company despite American diplomatic engagement showed “empty claims to support peace.” In response, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry claimed ignorance of the situation but insisted that China has consistently worked to reduce tensions in the Red Sea.

Chang Guang Satellite Technology Company had already been under US sanctions since 2023 for allegedly supplying high-resolution satellite images to the Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary force involved in the war in Ukraine. Although the Wagner Group has since been dissolved, the Chinese firm’s link to multiple conflict zones has kept it under international scrutiny.

Meanwhile, the United States has stepped up its military campaign against the Huthis. On Thursday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it had launched strikes targeting the Ras Issa fuel port in Yemen. This port was reportedly used by the rebels to generate revenue that funds their operations.

CENTCOM said that the fuel facility was “a source of illegal income” for the Huthis and its destruction would “deprive them of economic power.” The statement emphasized that these strikes were aimed not just at military targets, but also at cutting off financial resources that have helped sustain the Huthis for more than a decade.

While the Biden administration initially authorized strikes against the Huthis, former President Donald Trump has also thrown his support behind ongoing military action, insisting that force must continue until the rebels stop threatening maritime routes.

As tensions persist, the involvement of a Chinese company adds another layer of complexity to the conflict, raising concerns about broader geopolitical consequences involving China, Iran, and the United States.