China Reacts to US Sanctions Threat Over Iran Trade
China has described secondary sanctions threatened by the US over its trade with Iran as illegal and announced it will take necessary steps to protect its national interests.
China strongly reacted to US secondary sanctions threats over its trade with Iran, stating that these measures are illegal and declaring that it will take all necessary steps to defend its national interests. Meanwhile, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced new economic sanctions targeting individuals and entities connected to trade with Iran.
China's Strong Response to Sanctions Threat
China emphasized that the US sanctions threats made on the grounds of trade with Iran are illegal. Beijing announced that it will take all necessary measures to resolutely protect its national interests.
China, which purchases approximately 80 percent of Iran's oil exports, had also opposed previous US attempts aimed at restricting the flow of revenue to the Tehran regime.
New US Sanctions and Financial Institutions
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the first set of sanctions targeting 60 individuals, entities, and vessels alleged to be connected to trade with Iran.
The absence of Chinese financial institutions from the list, despite their roles in financing Iranian oil trade, was evaluated as an effort by the US to avoid a potential global financial system shock.
Cautious Approach Ahead of Leaders' Summit
Analysts and experts state that the Washington administration is taking into account the risk of Chinese retaliation ahead of the summit scheduled between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping next month.
It is noted that China could respond through financial markets or by introducing restrictions on the export of critical minerals.
Emphasis on International Law from Beijing
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian noted that cooperation between China and Iran is conducted within the framework of international law and that this situation should not be interfered with.
Lin Jian reiterated that they oppose illegal unilateral sanctions and will take all necessary steps to protect their own rights and interests.
Statements from Iran and Regional Situation
In Iran, which is economically strained due to war and the US blockade, Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh stated against Bessent's isolation threats that their defenses are no longer defense-oriented and that enemies should expect an attack.
It was announced that the crew on an oil tanker reported to have been hit by an unidentified object in the Strait of Hormuz are safe and no significant environmental damage has been observed.
Management of the Strait and Diplomatic Contacts
Iran and Oman held discussions regarding the joint management of the strait; Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi stated they hope an agreement on a temporary route can be reached shortly.
Meanwhile, a delegation led by Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir held talks in Tehran as part of mediation efforts for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Drop in Oil Prices and Military Situation
Following the US sanctions announcement, oil prices declined by about 4 percent as traders viewed the economic pressure as posing less risk to oil supply compared to military escalation.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, on the other hand, stated that new military moves remain on the table.