The Red Sea shipping crisis, fueled by Houthi attacks on commercial vessels, has become a fiery flashpoint linking Middle East tensions to the global economy. U.S.-led airstrikes in Yemen this week mark the latest escalation—but experts warn the root cause lies 3,000 km away in Gaza. 🔥
The Gaza Connection
Pakistani geopolitical analyst Mosharraf Zaidi told CGTN the crisis directly stems from Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, calling it a 'genocide' enabled by Western support. 'As long as this continues, actors across the region will exploit this moral vacuum,' he said, comparing Houthi strikes to 'smaller fires' ignited by the larger blaze.
Economic Fallout Ahead? 💸
With 12% of global trade passing through the Red Sea, disruptions could trigger inflation spikes and supply chain chaos reminiscent of COVID-era bottlenecks. 'Imagine every iPhone delivery delayed or your morning coffee price doubling,' Zaidi explained, noting the route’s importance for Asian-European trade. Over 1,500 ships have already rerouted via Africa—adding weeks and costs to journeys.
China’s Diplomatic Tightrope
As Washington faces criticism for 'supporting bloodshed while wanting stable trade,' eyes turn to Beijing. Zaidi notes China’s strong regional ties but cautions: 'No country fully controls its allies.' Still, growing calls for China to play mediator highlight shifting power dynamics as Western influence wanes.
📌 One thing’s clear: This isn’t just a Middle East crisis—it’s a stress test for globalization itself.
