China Says Its Cooperation with Iran Should Not Be Disrupted
Beijing said its Iran ties follow international law and warned it will defend its interests after Washington targeted 60 people, companies and vessels.
- On Monday, the United States announced sanctions on 60 individuals, entities, and vessels as part of Operation Economic Outcast. Beijing responded Tuesday, threatening to retaliate and declaring it will not back away from cooperation with Iran.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the campaign as aimed at severing Iran's financial lifelines. Washington targeted Hong Kong-based entities but avoided major Chinese financial institutions, seeking to raise business costs without triggering broader diplomatic fallout.
- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing that cooperation with Iran is conducted within international law and should not be interfered with. Lin opposed unilateral sanctions risking escalation.
- The Chinese Foreign Ministry vowed to take all necessary measures to safeguard its own rights and interests. Lin emphasized that de-escalation and negotiations should replace new restrictions.
- China remains a primary buyer of Iranian oil and was Iran's second-largest trading partner in 2025. Beijing's warning signals continued economic ties despite Washington pressure to isolate Tehran's financial access.
48 Articles
48 Articles
Washington is expanding its sanctions against Iran and its trading partners in an effort to cripple the regime's revenue. The United Arab Emirates has suspended its trade and financial ties with Tehran. Conversely, China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, refuses to join this campaign: Beijing promises to defend its interests and maintains that its cooperation with Iran respects international law. Analysis by Bruno Daroux, international affairs …
They threaten retaliation if American sanctions affect too many Chinese companies.
China warns US of retaliation over expansion of Iran sanctions
China's cooperation with Iran is conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday (Aug 25) when asked about new US sanctions related to Iran.
China "will take all necessary measures to protect its own interests resolutely," said a spokesman for the State Department. The US government wants to isolate Tehran from the global economy.
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