China Vows to Protect Its Interests Amid U.S. Sanctions on Iran and Trading Partners
BBC News reports that China has expressed its opposition to new U.S. economic sanctions targeting Iran and its trading partners, including Beijing.
Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that China firmly rejects what it calls "illegal unilateral sanctions" and will take all necessary measures to protect its rights. This response comes after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced stricter measures on Monday, warning countries doing business with Iran would face isolation.
Lin emphasized that "Cooperation between China and Iran... should not be interfered with or disrupted."
Bessent characterized the sanctions as "the single greatest financial offensive ever" against Iran, noting that banks and businesses could share in Iran's isolation if they refuse to sever ties. He declined to specifically target any nations but mentioned President Trump would be reaching out to world leaders with requests to cease interactions with Iran.
However, when asked about Chinese banks, Bessent clarified that "no one was above the reach of US sanctions."
This announcement comes ahead of scheduled talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month. Washington may be cautious of potential retaliation from Beijing, which controls the vast majority of global rare earths and other critical minerals essential for high-tech manufacturing.
China has previously tightened export controls on rare earths as leverage in trade negotiations with the U.S.
Iran's Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh expressed Tehran's readiness for the expanded sanctions, calling it "another defeat" for the U.S. He added that Iran had a two-year plan to manage the situation and possessed "our own tools...to play the game."
The U.S. has dubbed its latest sanctions "Operation Economic Outcast", describing them as an "economic D-Day" against Iran, which is already under heavy existing U.S. sanctions. The conflict has led to global oil price hikes and disruptions in shipping through the vital Strait of Hormuz.