A Chinese warship has been accused of targeting a German aircraft with a laser during a confrontation in Djibouti.

The incident, which prompted furious diplomatic protests from Berlin, occurred at the Horn of Africa nation, which uniquely hosts both US and Chinese military bases.

German officials condemned the laser targeting as "completely unacceptable" and summoned China's ambassador for an immediate dressing down.

Berlin's foreign ministry said: "The Chinese military employed a laser targeting a German aircraft in the EU operation Aspides."

Houthi militants launched fresh attacks on commercial vessels this morning

They added: "Endangering German personnel and disrupting the operation is entirely unacceptable. The Chinese ambassador was summoned to the Federal Foreign Office today."

The laser was fired from a Chinese frigate at an unidentified German aircraft, with officials warning the incident risked aviators' lives.

The German aircraft was participating in the EU's Operation Aspides mission, designed to safeguard vessels transiting the Red Sea.

Following the laser incident, the aircraft was compelled to abandon its operational duties and return to its base in Djibouti.

The German aircraft was participating in the EU's Operation Aspides mission

Germany is understood to have a Sea Lynx helicopter deployed on a frigate in the region.

It remains unclear whether the laser constituted a weapon system or formed part of a guidance mechanism.

The EU established Operation Aspides early last year to maintain a naval presence in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The mission responds to ongoing attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels against international commercial shipping in the strategically vital waterway.

An aerial view of the Greek-flagged oil tanker 'Sounion' draws worldwide attention in August 2024 after it is heavily damaged by Houthis in multiple attacks off Yemen at Piraeus anchorage in Piraeus, Greece

Houthi militants launched fresh attacks on commercial vessels this morning, with the Eternity C cargo ship coming under sustained assault.

UK Maritime officials reported the Greek-owned vessel remained "surrounded by small craft and is under continuous attack."

Two crew members were reported missing whilst at least two others sustained injuries.

The Houthis have not claimed responsibility for this morning's attack, though Yemen's exiled government and EU forces attributed it to the rebel group.

Meanwhile, Israel conducted devastating airstrikes on Sunday night against the hijacked British vessel Galaxy Leader.

The car carrier was seized by Houthis in November 2023 and had become a propaganda trophy for the militants.

The Israeli Defence Forces deployed approximately 50 missiles and bombs in the retaliatory strike.