Wow, what a big story.  The ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans is leading the news again today, but that China is facilitating the Iranian-controlled Houthi takeover of the Red Sea passage is really a huge story.  What will the U.S. do?  What will Israel do?  What will the UN Sec Gen say?  What will Saudi Arabia do?  “China helping Houthis obtain weapons for unmolested Red Sea passage,” i24, 1-2-25.  Note that the story tells us that the U.S. and Israel will act.  But the story doesn’t mention Iran, the fulcrum in this.  “A secret collaboration between Beijing and the Houthis has been uncovered, revealing a vast network of supply of sophisticated armaments that threatens the stability of the Red Sea. According to American intelligence sources speaking to i24NEWS, the Iran-backed Yemeni terror group is using Chinese-made weapons in their attacks, in exchange for immunity for ships flying the Chinese flag. US intelligence services have identified a complex supply chain set up by the Houthis in China since the beginning of the attacks in the Red Sea. This network allows them to acquire advanced components and guidance equipment for their ballistic and cruise missiles. Even more worrying, Houthi leaders are reportedly planning to manufacture hundreds of cruise missiles capable of striking Persian Gulf states, using these same Chinese components. Washington has repeatedly passed on this information to Beijing since September, including detailed lists of Chinese companies involved in this arms mechanism. “Houthi officials have visited China several times last summer and fall, probably for meetings with high-ranking officials of the regime,” says a diplomatic source. In the face of Beijing’s inaction, the United States now threatens to act jointly with Israel to cut off these Chinese trade networks from the global financial system. This revelation comes as the Houthis seek to establish lasting control over one of the world’s most crucial maritime routes, directly threatening international trade and regional stability.”

“US President Biden weighed options on striking Iran nuclear sites – Axios,” Iran International, 1-2-25.  “White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan presented President Joe Biden with potential military options for striking Iran’s nuclear facilities if Tehran advances toward a nuclear weapon before January 20, Axios reported, citing three sources.”

“Iraq-Iran fuel oil barter deal pays down debt backlog,” Iraq Oil Report, 1-2-25.