Written question asked by Lord Sedwill (Crossbench) on Monday, 29 January 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 February 2024. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 19 February 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Middle East: Armed Conflict

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made any representations to the governments of (1) India, or (2) China, regarding Iran’s support for militias attacking western forces and international shipping in the Middle East.

Answer: The Defence Secretary raised Iran backed Houthi rebels attacking international shipping in the Middle East with his Indian counterpart in January. India is contributing to international naval efforts to help secure shipping in the region. We also raised this with China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging them to use their relationship with Iran to convey that Iran should pressure the Houthis in line with China's call for the cessation of attacks and harassment against civilian ships.

Secondary information