Beijing Condemns U.S. Blockade of Strait of Hormuz as 'Dangerous'

The Chinese foreign ministry has issued a sharp rebuke of the United States' decision to blockade Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, describing the action as 'dangerous and irresponsible.' The blockade, which commenced at 10:00 a.m. ET on Monday, follows the collapse of peace negotiations in Islamabad over the weekend. Beijing's concern is rooted in both regional stability and economic necessity. As the primary purchaser of Iranian crude oil, China faces direct economic exposure to any disruption in the vital shipping channel. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that the blockade, combined with increased U.S. military presence, risks dismantling a fragile ceasefire established on April 7. Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun emphasized that only a comprehensive ceasefire can resolve the crisis and restore normal maritime traffic. During a press conference, Guo also denied allegations that China has been supplying weapons to the Islamic Republic, labeling such reports as 'completely made up.' Global energy markets reacted with volatility to the escalation. While the blockade initially threatened supply, Brent crude fell approximately 1% to $98.44 and WTI dropped 2.6% to $96.48 on Tuesday, as traders weighed the military action against reports of potential diplomatic resolutions to the six-week conflict.