Beijing sharply criticized US and Israeli military actions, holding them responsible for disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising global energy prices.
China Condemns US and Israeli Actions
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Thursday that the “illegal military action by the US and Israel” is the source of problems with navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Responding to a speech by US President Donald Trump, who threatened massive attacks on Iran, Mao called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz
“The cause of disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is the illegal military action by the US and Israel against Iran,” Mao said during a press briefing. “Only a ceasefire and the achievement of peace in the region can fundamentally guarantee the security of shipping lanes,” she added.
China Comments on Trump’s Threats
Regarding Trump’s announcement of intensified attacks, the Chinese diplomat emphasized that escalation serves no one’s interests. “Military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem,” she stated, appealing for a resumption of talks and avoidance of a “greater humanitarian catastrophe.”
Reaction to Trump’s Address
The statement is a reaction to President Trump’s Wednesday evening address, in which he threatened that the US would “hit Iran very hard” in the coming weeks, and that the country would “return to the Stone Age.”
Condemnation of Attacks on Civilian Sites
China also condemned attacks on civilian sites in Iran, including schools, calling them a “serious violation of international humanitarian law.”
Rising Energy Prices and Iranian Blockade
US and Israeli forces have been conducting airstrikes on Iran since February 28th. As a result of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz imposed by Tehran – through which approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas is normally transported – energy prices have risen sharply worldwide. Trump suggested in his address that other countries purchase American oil, of which – as he asserted – the US “has a lot.”