Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, China has officially warned Washington against interfering in Beijing’s bilateral relations with Tehran and urged respect for its commercial and energy commitments.
Kabul 24: According to international and Iranian media reports, Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun issued a firm statement emphasizing that Chinese vessels will continue their uninterrupted passage through this vital waterway. He declared: “We have solid trade and energy agreements with Iran and we are fully committed to honoring them.
We expect others not to interfere in our internal affairs and bilateral relations.”This strong position from China comes immediately after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a complete naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Following the collapse of peace talks with Iran in Pakistan, Trump ordered the U.S. Navy to stop and seize any vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports or linked to payments to Tehran.
The measure, which began enforcement early Monday, aims to exert maximum economic pressure on Iran to accept Washington’s new conditions.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, handling approximately 20 percent of global crude oil shipments daily. Any disruption could sharply drive up oil prices and send shockwaves through global energy markets.
Economic experts have warned that a full blockade would not only target Iran’s economy but also severely affect major energy-importing nations such as China, Japan, India, and South Korea.
As Iran’s largest oil buyer and a key trading partner for Tehran, China has direct and substantial interests in regional stability. Beijing had previously called through its Foreign Ministry for restraint by all parties and the preservation of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stressed that any unilateral action disrupting energy flows goes against the common interests of the international community and could lead to broader confrontation.
In his remarks, the Chinese Defense Minister indirectly warned that any attempt to intercept or hinder Chinese ships in international waters could have serious consequences and even risk direct naval clashes between the two powers.
Analysts believe these statements signal that China is unwilling to sacrifice its vital energy security interests for American pressure.Global energy markets were already on edge. Oil prices surged noticeably in the early hours of the blockade, while shares of shipping and refining companies experienced sharp volatility.
Many analysts argue that if China and other Asian powers actively defend their right to free navigation, the full implementation of the U.S. blockade will face significant practical challenges.
Meanwhile, Iran has warned that any hostile action in the Strait of Hormuz will be met with a proportionate and decisive response. Iranian officials have described the blockade as a “flagrant violation of international law” and an “act of aggression,” holding the United States fully responsible for any consequences.
Overall, China’s firm stance not only protects its own economic interests but also sends a clear signal to Washington that the era of unchecked unilateralism is over.
Emerging powers like China are now playing a decisive role in global energy and maritime security equations.
The continuation of these tensions could add new dimensions to regional conflicts and further threaten global stability.
