According to German officials, the incident occurred earlier this month when a Chinese warship allegedly fired a laser at a reconnaissance plane as it was conducting surveillance. China, however, claims that its naval activities in the region were focused on escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and Somalia, and encouraged both nations to approach the situation with facts to prevent misunderstandings.
The incident forced the German aircraft to return to its base in Djibouti as a precaution, prompting Berlin to express outrage. Tensions in the region are amplified by China's military presence in Djibouti, established in 2017, which has raised alarms among Western governments regarding its growing influence over vital maritime routes.
As diplomatic discussions unfold, the incident highlights the complexities of international relations in a region marked by ongoing military operations and geopolitical strife, especially concerning the activities of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen.
### Who are the Houthis and why is the US targeting them?
Middle East, Germany, China, Djibouti.
The incident forced the German aircraft to return to its base in Djibouti as a precaution, prompting Berlin to express outrage. Tensions in the region are amplified by China's military presence in Djibouti, established in 2017, which has raised alarms among Western governments regarding its growing influence over vital maritime routes.
As diplomatic discussions unfold, the incident highlights the complexities of international relations in a region marked by ongoing military operations and geopolitical strife, especially concerning the activities of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen.
### Who are the Houthis and why is the US targeting them?
Middle East, Germany, China, Djibouti.
