China rejects U.S. sanctions against countries supporting Iran

16:10

By: Azzat Manal

China rejects U.S. sanctions against countries supporting Iran

China has criticized unilateral U.S. measures targeting countries that maintain economic or political ties with Iran, describing such actions as contrary to international law and warning that escalating pressure could further destabilize the situation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated Beijing’s opposition to unilateral sanctions that are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council. He called on all parties to exercise restraint and pursue political and diplomatic solutions rather than relying on economic coercion or military pressure.

The statement came after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans to intensify economic pressure on Iran and warned countries and companies that continue doing business with Tehran that they could face consequences from Washington. The U.S. administration has argued that stronger financial restrictions are necessary to limit Iran’s ability to finance activities it considers destabilizing.

Washington has also urged its allies to participate in efforts to isolate Iran economically. U.S. officials have linked the campaign to broader concerns over regional security, energy supplies and the future of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes for oil and gas shipments.

China, however, has maintained that sanctions imposed without a Security Council mandate cannot provide a sustainable solution. Beijing has repeatedly called for negotiations and diplomatic engagement, arguing that additional economic and military pressure could deepen confrontation rather than resolve the underlying disputes.

The disagreement highlights the wider divide between Washington and Beijing over how to address Iran and manage growing tensions in the Middle East. While the United States is seeking to increase economic pressure on Tehran and discourage international trade with Iran, China continues to defend its right to maintain commercial relations and oppose what it considers extraterritorial sanctions.

The issue also carries significant economic implications. Any disruption affecting the Strait of Hormuz could have consequences for global energy markets, shipping costs and international trade. China, as a major energy importer, has a strong interest in maintaining the stability of regional supply routes.

The latest exchange therefore reflects not only differences over Iran’s foreign policy and economic activities, but also broader competition over international sanctions, energy security and the role of diplomacy in resolving geopolitical crises.