China warns against unilateral US sanctions 'economic strangulation' of Iran

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian on Tuesday (25/8) stressed that his country strongly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not authorised by the UN Security Council.

Lin made the remarks at a regular press conference when asked to respond to media reports that US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Monday (24/8) had outlined a plan for the “economic strangulation” of Iran, expanding Washington’s secondary sanctions threats and warning of severe consequences for countries that do not join the campaign.

“Economic warfare and maximum pressure do not help resolve problems. On the contrary, such actions only heighten tensions and conflict, create spillover risks, disrupt the global economic and financial order, and undermine the legitimate rights and interests of other countries,” Lin said.

Lin said the urgent priority at present is to de-escalate the situation and return to the path of dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible.

According to him, China’s cooperation with Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or undermined.

“China is closely monitoring relevant developments and will take all necessary measures to firmly protect its legitimate rights and interests,” Lin said.