BERLIN – Tensions have flared in the Red Sea after Germany's military accused a Chinese naval vessel of targeting one of its military aircraft with a laser, a charge that Beijing has firmly denied.
The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) reported that the incident occurred while one of its maritime patrol aircraft was conducting a surveillance mission in the international waters of the Red Sea. According to the German statement, the crew of the aircraft detected a laser being directed at them from a People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ship operating in the same area.
"This act is an unacceptable form of interference that can endanger the safety of our aircrew by potentially blinding the pilots," a spokesperson for the German Ministry of Defence stated. "We call on all international forces to operate in a professional manner and in accordance with international law."
In response, China has dismissed the German allegation as "untrue" and "groundless." A spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense in Beijing stated that the Chinese naval vessels were conducting normal operations in strict compliance with international law and practice.
"The claims made by the German side are completely false," the Chinese spokesperson said. "We urge the relevant party to stop spreading disinformation and to make more efforts that are conducive to building mutual trust and ensuring regional peace and stability."
The incident highlights the complex and increasingly crowded maritime environment in the Red Sea, a critical waterway for global trade where numerous international naval forces are currently deployed for various missions, including anti-piracy and security operations.
