Chinese Defence Minister Warns US Over Strait of Hormuz Blockade: Do Not Interfere

The Chinese government has warned the United States regarding the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz not to interfere in Beijing’s bilateral affairs with Tehran. According to India Today, the warning from Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun was issued alongside the start of the US maritime blockade on Monday (13/4/2026). “We have trade and energy agreements with Iran; we hope that other parties will not interfere in our affairs,” Jun stated, adding that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to China. The Strait of Hormuz is crucial for Beijing as it supplies nearly 40 per cent of its total oil imports and 30 per cent of its liquefied natural gas (LNG) needs. For this reason, China has consistently pushed for a ceasefire to secure maritime passage in the Persian Gulf. According to several experts, Trump’s efforts to blockade the Strait of Hormuz are targeted at ships paying tolls to Iran in yuan. Washington views this as a challenge to the petrodollar system and disregard for US sanctions. Meanwhile, China’s Foreign Ministry has reaffirmed Beijing’s support for a ceasefire. Beijing considers halting the conflict essential for maritime security, stability, and unimpeded passage to serve the interests of the international community. “The root cause of disruptions to navigation in the strait lies in the conflict involving Iran, and the way to resolve this issue is to achieve a ceasefire and end hostilities as soon as possible,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun, quoted by SCMP.