China says US 'sanctions and pressure' on Iran not a solution

China stated on Friday that United States "sanctions and pressure" would not resolve the Middle East conflict. The comment came after Washington urged governments, including Beijing, to join efforts to isolate Iran's economy.

“

sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue

US President Donald Trump had vowed to "collapse" the Iranian regime with a threatened campaign, which Tehran has labeled "economic terrorism." China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters that "sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue." He added, "China calls on all relevant parties to take responsible measures and resolve the problem through political and diplomatic means."

“

China calls on all relevant parties to take responsible measures and resolve the problem through political and diplomatic means

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had defended Trump's push for economic pressure on Tehran. When asked if the US would pressure China to join the campaign, Bessent told CNBC that "many conversations are best to have in private," but called on Beijing "to get with the programme."

“

many conversations are best to have in private

Spokesman Lin reiterated the need for all parties to take "responsible measures" in resolving the war when asked about Bessent's comments. He stated, "China opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not authorized by the UN Security Council."

“

to get with the programme