Beijing, China – The People’s Republic of China expressed grave concern over the recent military escalation between the United States and Iran, urging both sides to prioritize dialogue and avoid igniting a new war in the Middle East.
China’s stance followed the collapse of diplomatic talks hosted by Pakistan. This was followed by US threats to impose a comprehensive naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global energy trade.
Agence France-Presse reported that Beijing expressed hope that the diplomatic setback in Islamabad would not lead to a return to armed conflict. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiaxing told a press conference: “China hopes that the parties concerned will abide by the temporary ceasefire agreement, continue to resolve disputes through political and diplomatic means, avoid reigniting the war, and create favorable conditions for an early return to peace and stability in the Gulf region.”
In the same vein, China urged all parties to exercise maximum calm and restraint, according to Reuters. When asked about US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, spokesperson Guo Jiajun stressed that maintaining “safe, stable, and unobstructed” waterways serves the common interest of the entire international community. This objective is not limited to the parties involved in the dispute.
Beijing, one of the largest importers of oil via this waterway, affirmed its full readiness to work with all relevant parties to ensure energy security and the continuity of supplies. It also warned that any disruption to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz would have catastrophic repercussions for the already struggling global economy.
Observers believe that the Chinese stance reflects Beijing’s desire to play the role of a “rational mediator” in a crisis that, if it spirals out of control, could lead to unprecedented spikes in fuel prices. This would threaten the industrial and commercial stability of both China and the world.
China is closely monitoring the deadline set by Washington for the start of the blockade. Simultaneously, intensive diplomatic efforts are underway behind the scenes to de-escalate the tense situation.
