US Blocks Iranian Ports, China: Dangerous and Irresponsible!
The Chinese government has stated that the United States’ blockade around Iranian ports is “dangerous and irresponsible”. This was expressed after US President Donald Trump threatened to sink any ship attempting to leave or dock there.
Trump has ordered a blockade of ships entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas in the Gulf, following the failure of peace talks over the weekend.
The blockade took effect at 14:00 GMT on Monday (13/4), although the United States and Iran had agreed to a two-week ceasefire a few days earlier.
“The US is increasing its military deployment and taking targeted blockade actions, which will only exacerbate tensions, undermine the already fragile ceasefire agreement, and further endanger the security of shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz,” said spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guo Jiakun, at a press conference, as reported by AFP news agency on Tuesday (14/4/2026).
“This is dangerous and irresponsible behaviour,” he added, as reported by AFP news agency on Tuesday (14/4/2026).
Previously, Iran had closed the vital Strait of Hormuz to what it considers enemy ships. Iran only allows ships associated with countries it deems friendly, such as China.
According to analysts, Trump’s blockade aims to cut off the flow of funds to Iran and pressure Beijing, Iran’s largest oil buyer, to urge Tehran to open the strait, through which one-fifth of global oil passes.
Iran’s Ambassador to the UN described Trump’s blockade as a “grave violation” of Iran’s sovereignty.
Chinese President Xi Jinping urged respect for the sovereignty of countries in the Gulf and the Middle East on Tuesday morning. He said Beijing would continue to play a “constructive role” in promoting peace negotiations.
Xi made these comments during a meeting with Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Beijing, one of several leaders from countries affected by the US-Israel war against Iran.