• Source:JND

China on Monday issued a stern warning to the United States against its decision to impose a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. The US military blockade on Iranian ports came into effect at 10 am ET, with Vice President JD Vance calling it an “equal response.” This is a first major move by Trump administration following the collapse of peace talks between Tehran and Washington in Islamabad on Saturday.

China Asks US To 'Not Interfere'

The strait, which was previously blocked by Iran, lies at the centre of this blockade, raising fear of further disruption in global energy supplies and trade. Amid this uncertainty, Beijing has cautioned Washington to not interfere in China’s relations with Iran. Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun asserted that Chinese vessels would keep operating in the area and warned against external interference.

Jun emphasised that Beijing would honour its trade and energy commitments with Tehran despite the ongoing circumstances. He further claimed that Iran controls the passage through this critical waterway and that it remains open for Chinese vessels. “Our ships are moving in and out of the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. We have trade and energy agreements with Iran. We will respect and honour those agreements and expect others not to interfere in our affairs,” Jun said.

China’s warning came after at least two oil and chemical tankers were forced to turn back from the Strait of Hormuz on Monday. According to MarineTraffic data, minutes after the blockade began, the vessel Rich Starry, which had listed China as its destination, reversed course. The flow of trade through the waterway is significant for Beijing as it fulfills nearly 40 per cent of its oil and at least 30 per cent of its LNG needs.

Is Beijing Supplying Arms To Tehran?

The development also comes amid reports that China is preparing to supply Iran with advanced weaponry, specifically air defense systems (MANPADS). US President Donald Trump has warned Beijing against doing so. Without detailing specific retaliatory measures, he said, “If China does that, China is going to have big problems, okay?" However, China has rejected such reports, calling it “groundless" and "malicious".

Earlier on April 7, China took assertive positions on the global stage after it vetoed a UN resolution calling for coordinated efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Chinese Ministry also reiterated its support for a ceasefire, emphasising that the waterway's "safety, stability and unimpeded passage" serves the common interests of the international community.

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