Chinese fighter jet buzzes USS Harry S. Truman near Saudi port

In a provocative display, a Chengdu J-10C fighter jet from China flew at low altitude near King Fahd Port in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, where the USS Harry S. Truman, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was deployed. This incident on April 24, 2025, has important implications in light of the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Middle East, particularly concerning China's support for the Houthi movement in Yemen. Reports indicate that these actions are seen as part of a broader proxy conflict where the People's Republic of China is allegedly providing aid to groups opposed to U.S. interests. Social media played a significant role in disseminating images of the Chinese fighter jet, which were corroborated by satellite imagery of the area. The tensions have raised concerns among observers regarding the Saudi royal family's relationship with Beijing. The Chinese defense ministry has denied that the J-10C jet belongs to the Chinese army, further complicating perceptions of Chinese military activities in the region. Given the strategic importance of Yanbu, which not only is a significant religious site but also a logistical hub, the presence of Chinese military assets in close proximity to U.S. forces prompts critical assessments of regional alliances and the potential for escalated hostilities between the major world powers. As the tension between the two nations grows, it also mirrors the difficulties faced by Egypt, another traditional U.S. ally, as it has been reported that they may be purchasing military equipment from China. The context of these developments highlights the fragility of alliances in the Middle East and poses questions about the future direction of U.S.-Saudi relations.