China Condemns US Blockade of Iranian Ports as Risky Move

China has denounced the US naval restrictions on Iranian ports as “irresponsible and dangerous,” according to a statement from its foreign ministry. The measure, which began on Monday, risks destabilizing the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, which was established in early April. Beijing warns that the blockade could threaten the safety of ships traversing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway that Iran has closed in response to recent attacks by US-Israeli forces.

The US action follows the collapse of peace talks in Pakistan, where negotiations between the two nations had stalled. President Donald Trump claims the move is meant to compel Iran to abandon its nuclear program, but analysts argue it also aims to pressure China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, into persuading Tehran to reopen the strait. This strategic maneuver would allow Iranian ships to bypass US restrictions, potentially reducing China’s economic dependence on the region.

“China believes that only by achieving a comprehensive ceasefire and ending the war can we fundamentally create conditions for easing the situation in the strait,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. “China urges all parties to abide by the ceasefire arrangements, focus on the general direction of dialogue and peace talks, take practical actions to promote the easing of the regional situation, and restore normal traffic in the strait as soon as possible.”

Iran’s UN ambassador labeled the US blockade a “grave violation” of the country’s sovereignty. Until now, Chinese vessels had managed to pass through the strait, though it remains unclear if they had paid fees to Iran for doing so. The blockade could disrupt China’s oil supply chain, raising concerns about its economic implications. Meanwhile, oil prices dropped below $100 per barrel, signaling a temporary easing of market tensions.

The US has stated its military will not block ships traveling to non-Iranian ports, but it plans to restrict Iranian vessels by operating its naval forces in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean. This approach avoids direct confrontation near Iran’s coast. However, shipping data from BBC Verify indicates that four ships linked to Iran crossed the strait on Tuesday, challenging the effectiveness of the blockade.

Geopolitical Tensions and Ceasefire Fragility

A ceasefire between the US and Iran, implemented on 8 April, remains in place despite ongoing disputes. Key issues include the control of the Strait of Hormuz and whether Lebanon is part of the agreement. Israel maintains that the truce applies only to Iran and has continued airstrikes against Hezbollah, resulting in significant casualties. Diplomatic talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials are set to occur in the US, marking the first such meetings in decades.

US Vice-President JD Vance accused Iran of “economic terrorism,” citing its blockade of the strait and attacks on ships since last month. In response, he stated: “Well, as the president of the United States showed, two can play at that game. If the Iranians are going to try to engage in economic terrorism, we’re going to abide by the simple principle that no Iranian ships are getting out, either.” Trump has also threatened to impose a 50% tariff on Chinese goods if China provides military support to Iran, prompting Beijing to vow countermeasures if needed.