China on laser attack on German plane: Berlin's accusations do not match the facts

China has responded to Germany's accusations of a laser attack on one of its aircraft., Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a briefing that Berlin had distorted the facts.

"As we have learned from the competent authorities, what Germany has said is completely inconsistent with the facts known to China. The Chinese Navy's escort missions in the Gulf of Aden and Somali waters speak volumes about China fulfilling its duty as a great power and contributing to the security of international shipping lanes," Mao Ning said .

She noted that China maintained good ties with Germany and the EU. According to the Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, both sides should strengthen fact-based communication to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations.

The attack took place on July 8.. Germany said its plane was patrolling the Red Sea as part of the EU's Aspides mission to protect civilian vessels from Houthi attacks. At that time, the Chinese military fired a laser at the plane. After the incident, German diplomats summoned China's ambassador for explanations.

• on July 6 and 7, the Houthis attacked two bulk carriers in the Red Sea for the first time since April. In the first case, the crew survived, while in the second, two people were killed and the same number were injured.
• July 7 Israel attacks three Houthi ports and a power plant in Yemen. According to the IDF, these ports were used to receive weapons from Iran for operations against Israel and its allies.