China urges 'dialogue' after Yemen rebels say attacked US carrier

China on Monday called for "dialogue" and a de-escalation of tensions in the Red Sea after Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed to have twice attacked a US aircraft carrier group within 24 hours.

"China opposes any action that escalates the situation in the Red Sea," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular briefing.

"The reasons behind the situation in the Red Sea and the Yemen issue are complex and should be properly resolved through dialogue and negotiation," Mao said.

The Houthis said their attacks were retaliation for deadly US strikes.