Germany Confronts China Over Alleged Laser Attack on Military Aircraft
Germany summoned China’s ambassador Tuesday following accusations that Chinese military forces targeted a German aircraft with laser weapons during a European Union mission in the Red Sea. Beijing immediately denied the allegations.
The incident allegedly occurred while the German aircraft participated in an EU naval operation designed to protect commercial shipping lanes from regional threats. Laser targeting of aircraft poses serious safety risks to crew members and can potentially cause permanent eye damage or navigation system interference.
German foreign ministry officials called the ambassador to provide an official explanation for the reported laser incident. The diplomatic summons represents a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations, particularly given Germany’s traditionally cautious approach to confronting China on security matters.
China’s military presence in the Red Sea has increased substantially in recent months as Beijing expands its global naval operations. The strategic waterway handles approximately 12% of global trade, making it a critical shipping corridor for international commerce.
The EU mission aims to safeguard merchant vessels transiting the Red Sea amid growing regional instability. Multiple European nations contribute naval assets and aircraft to the operation, which began earlier this year.
Neither Germany nor China immediately provided additional details about the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged laser targeting incident. The dispute highlights growing friction between European nations and China over military activities in international waters.
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