China Condemns U.S. Naval Blockade of Iranian Ports as Dangerous
China has characterized a U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports as irresponsible and dangerous. Beijing’s foreign ministry stated the action would undermine a fragile ceasefire agreement and further jeopardize safety in the Strait of Hormuz.
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The blockade was implemented on Monday, following a breakdown in peace talks between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. President has stated the measure aims to compel Iran to abandon nuclear ambitions. Analysts suggest it also pressures China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, to encourage Tehran to reopen the strait.
Iran’s ambassador to the UN has called the blockade a grave violation of sovereignty. Until now, Chinese vessels have been among the few transiting the strait, though it is unclear if a toll was paid to Iran. The U.S. action could potentially cut off China’s supply and impact its economy.
A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman emphasized that a comprehensive ceasefire is needed to ease the strait’s situation, urging all parties to abide by ceasefire arrangements and restore normal traffic. The spokesman also denied reports of China preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran as completely fabricated.
The U.S. President has threatened to impose a 50% tariff on China’s goods if military assistance is provided to Tehran. China stated it would take resolute countermeasures if such tariffs were imposed.
The U.S. Vice-President accused Iran of economic terrorism over its own blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which began last month. He stated the U.S. would prevent Iranian ships from leaving. The U.S. military says it will not impede ships going to non-Iranian ports and is blockading Iran’s Gulf ports from the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean.
Shipping data indicates at least four Iran-linked ships crossed the strait on Tuesday. Meanwhile, oil prices fell below $100 per barrel that day.
A delicate ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, implemented on April 8, remains. Major points of contention include the status of the Strait of Hormuz and whether Lebanon is included. Israel maintains the truce applies only to Iran and has continued strikes against Hezbollah. Direct talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials are set to be held in the U.S.
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