China has increased its rhetoric towards the United States on Tuesday, calling the blockade of Iranian ports “dangerous and irresponsible.” They presented themselves as active protagonists in efforts to resolve the crisis during a day of intense diplomatic activity in Beijing.
Beijing also warned that China would take “resolute countermeasures” if the United States imposed additional tariffs on them due to suspicions of providing military aid to Iran. At the same time, Beijing positioned itself as a defender of international law and the sovereignty of Middle Eastern states, ready to continue playing a “constructive” role for peace.
China’s strong stance comes after the US implemented a maritime blockade against Iranian ports in the Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Tehran denounced this as an “illegal” act of “piracy.” Over half of China’s crude oil imports via maritime routes last year came from the Middle East, with most passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the analysis company Kpler. Before the war, Iran directed over 80% of its oil exports to China, as reported by Kpler.
According to Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the American blockade “will only exacerbate tensions, weaken a fragile ceasefire agreement, and further compromise security in the strait.”
President Xi Jinping of China criticized the US operations indirectly during a meeting in Beijing with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. Xi highlighted the importance of upholding international law amidst the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Several foreign leaders visited China amid the Middle East developments, including the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Vietnamese President To Lam, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, known for opposing the US and Israel’s war on Iran.
China and Russia stand as partners of Iran and rivals to the United States. China has been cautious in its support for Tehran to maintain strong relations with Gulf Arab countries, with whom it has deepened economic and diplomatic cooperation over the past decade.
Despite remaining discreet about details, China has played an important role in the current ceasefire and the failed talks between Iran and the US in Pakistan. President Xi Jinping assured continued constructive engagement in peace talks during meetings with foreign leaders.
Mr. Xi urged cooperation between China and Spain to oppose the return of a lawless world. Mr. Sanchez acknowledged China’s significant role in conflict resolution, emphasizing the necessity of their efforts.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov arrived in China for a two-day visit, during which both powers will “coordinate” on current international issues, according to Beijing.
