China warns USA over its Strait of Hormuz blockade, says action against global interests
China, a major importer of Iranian oil prior to the conflict, stressed the importance of maintaining stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply.
China has cautioned the United States against its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such a move would undermine global interests and escalate tensions in an already volatile region.
Speaking in Beijing on Monday April 13, 2026, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said disrupting traffic through the strategic waterway would not serve the international community. His remarks came during a meeting with UAE presidential envoy Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, according to China’s foreign ministry.
The warning follows an announcement by the U.S. military that it will begin blocking all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas starting Monday. The decision comes after weekend negotiations in Islamabad aimed at resolving the ongoing Iran conflict ended without agreement.
China, a major importer of Iranian oil prior to the conflict, stressed the importance of maintaining stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply.
“China hopes the relevant parties will abide by the temporary ceasefire arrangements, remain committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means, and avoid a resumption of hostilities,” foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a regular press conference on Monday.
Wang noted that while China recognizes the security concerns of Gulf Arab states, a lasting solution requires a comprehensive ceasefire achieved through diplomatic efforts. “The fundamental way to resolve the crisis lies in political and diplomatic means,” he said.
At a regular press briefing, foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun echoed the call for restraint, urging all parties to honor temporary ceasefire arrangements and avoid renewed hostilities. He added that China is prepared to play a “constructive role” in de-escalating the crisis and described the Islamabad talks as a positive step despite their outcome.
Following the collapse of negotiations, U.S. Central Command confirmed that the blockade would take effect at 10 a.m. ET (1400 GMT) on Monday.
China and Pakistan have consistently supported peace efforts, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of normal navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Beijing dismissed allegations that it plans to supply weapons to Iran. Guo described such claims as “groundless” and reaffirmed that China maintains strict controls on arms exports in line with its legal and international obligations.
The situation remains fluid as global powers weigh the implications of escalating military and economic measures in the region.
