China Hits Out at ‘Dangerous and Irresponsible’ US Blockade of Iran’s Ports
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- China has strongly condemned the US blockade of Iranian ports as "dangerous and irresponsible."
- Beijing urged an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning the US action would escalate tensions.
- China stated it would continue working with the international community to promote peace talks and stability in the Middle East.
Beijing has issued a sharp rebuke to the United States, denouncing the US blockade of Iranian ports as both "dangerous and irresponsible." China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Guo Jiakun, articulated this strong stance during a daily briefing, emphasizing that such unilateral actions serve only to inflame regional tensions, escalate the ongoing crisis, and further destabilize an already fragile ceasefire. The spokesman warned that this would inevitably jeopardize maritime navigation safety in the critical Strait of Hormuz.
China is calling for all parties involved to adhere strictly to the existing ceasefire arrangements. Beijing urges a focus on the broader path of dialogue and negotiations, demanding concrete steps towards de-escalating the regional situation. Furthermore, China insists on the swift restoration of normal navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry stressed that the current situation in the region has reached a critical juncture, highlighting the need for diplomatic solutions rather than military escalations.
We urge all parties to abide by the ceasefire arrangement, focus on the broader direction of dialogue and negotiations, take concrete actions to de-escalate the regional situation and restore normal navigation in the strait at an early date.
In its diplomatic efforts, China affirmed its commitment to collaborating with the international community. The nation aims to actively promote peace talks and work towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. This position reflects China's consistent policy of advocating for diplomatic resolutions and opposing actions that could lead to wider conflict, particularly in vital strategic waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.
The situation in the region was 'at a critical stage' and said China would continue to work with the international community to promote peace talks and to strive for peace and stability in the Middle East.
Originally published by South China Morning Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.