On July 8, the German Foreign Ministry announced that a Chinese warship laser-targeted a German reconnaissance plane in the Red Sea, prompting the summoning of the Chinese ambassador to Germany, Deng Hongbo. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating that such interference is unacceptable and demanding an explanation from the Chinese side. This incident reportedly occurred around July 2, when a German aircraft participating in the EU's Operation ASPIDES was conducting a routine reconnaissance flight over the Red Sea and encountered the Chinese warship, which aimed a laser at the plane without prior contact. According to the German Ministry of Defense, the reconnaissance mission was interrupted and the aircraft safely returned to base.

The specific time and location of the incident have not been disclosed by the German government, which reiterates that the evidence is solid. Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry claimed that the German narrative does not align with the facts, emphasizing China's commitment to maintaining communication.