China Warns of Safeguarding Its Interests Amid Expanded US Sanctions against Iran
BBC News reports that China has vowed to protect its interests following the US's announcement of plans to widen economic sanctions against Iran, which include Beijing as a trading partner.
China's Response
Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed China's firm opposition to what it termed "illegal unilateral sanctions." He stated that China would take all necessary measures to safeguard its rights, emphasizing:
"Cooperation between China and Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted."
US Sanctions and Reactions
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the planned sanctions as "the single greatest financial offensive ever" against Iran, warning that banks and businesses that refuse to cut ties with Iran would face isolation. He declined to single out specific nations but mentioned that President Trump would be reaching out to world leaders with specific requests to cease interactions with Iran.
Bessent also addressed Chinese banks, stating that "no one was above the reach of US sanctions." This announcement comes ahead of planned talks between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month.
Iranian Preparedness
Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh stated that Tehran was fully prepared for the expanded sanctions, predicting another defeat for the US. He noted that Iran had a two-year plan to manage these events and possessed the tools to play the game.
US Sanctions Strategy
The US has dubbed its latest sanctions "Operation Economic Outcast" and characterized them as an "economic D-Day" against Iran. These sanctions come nearly six months into the Iran war, which has led to global oil price hikes and disruptions in shipping through the vital Strait of Hormuz.
US Treasury claimed that the new sanctions would not only manage but end the Iranian threat, despite existing heavy US sanctions on Iran.