China has criticised the US naval blockade of Iranian ports as “dangerous and irresponsible”, warning that the move risks escalating tensions and undermining a fragile ceasefire in West Asia.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said the US action would:
“Inflame tensions” in the region
Escalate an already volatile situation
Undermine the existing ceasefire
Threaten safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz
China described the regional situation as being at a “critical stage” and said it would work with the international community to promote peace.
The US launched the blockade after talks with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz failed over the weekend.
The United States Central Command said:
The blockade would target Iranian ports
Neutral maritime traffic would not be fully stopped
Transit to non-Iranian destinations would continue
Iran has responded with strong warnings, stating that:
Ports across the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman may no longer be safe
Retaliatory measures could follow the US action
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, in a call with Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar, stressed:
Preventing a return to hostilities is the immediate priority
Maintaining ceasefire momentum is critical
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said China would prefer a resolution, citing ongoing ties between the two countries.
Beijing also warned it would respond if Washington imposes fresh tariffs over allegations that China is supplying weapons to Iran.
China denied the allegations as “fabricated”
It reiterated strict controls on military exports
It warned of countermeasures if tariffs are imposed
Reports have suggested that China could supply air defence systems to Iran, though Beijing has dismissed such claims.
The US blockade has added a new layer of geopolitical risk, with China stepping in diplomatically while warning that the situation could spiral further. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical flashpoint for global energy flows and regional stability.