Trump Prioritises War Against Iran, Postpones China Visit by a Month

WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump announced on Monday, 16 March 2026, his intention to postpone his visit to Beijing to meet President China Xi Jinping by at least one month due to the ongoing war with Iran.

“I very much want to [go to China], but because of the war, I have to be here,” Trump said regarding the meeting, originally scheduled for 31 March–2 April. “So we asked that the visit be postponed by about a month.”

“I look forward to meeting with him. We have a very good relationship,” he added, referring to Xi.

Several hours earlier, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that the China visit could be rescheduled because Trump needs to focus on the US and Israel’s war against Iran.

“As commander-in-chief, his immediate priority is ensuring the success of this operation, Epic Fury. We will inform you of the date shortly,” she said.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also said Trump wished to remain in Washington to coordinate war efforts.

“Travelling abroad at a time like this may not be the optimal choice,” he said.

The statement came a day after Trump told the Financial Times that he could postpone his meeting with Xi if China failed to help the US open the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blockaded, within the coming days.

Trump continues to pressure oil-dependent nations, including Japan and South Korea, to send naval vessels to secure this crucial shipping route.

During a White House meeting, Trump again called for support in opening the strait, which handles approximately 20 per cent of global oil supplies.

He also claimed many nations had prepared to assist, but did not clarify which countries supported the initiative and which did not.

As the war entered its third week with no signs of ending, prospects for Trump’s first visit to China during his second term have become increasingly uncertain.

Nevertheless, both nations’ economic officials have continued their dialogue, holding a two-day meeting in Paris and agreeing to maintain close communication.