China Blames US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran for Strait of Hormuz Blockage

China Blames US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran for Strait of Hormuz Blockage

China has accused the United States and Israel of being the “root cause” of the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, following recent military strikes on Iran. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday that the interruption to navigation resulted directly from what Beijing described as “illegal military operations” by Washington and Tel Aviv against Tehran.

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes for crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Iran has effectively restricted access to the strait in retaliation for the joint strikes, escalating tensions in the Middle East and threatening global energy supply chains.

China, as the largest importer of Iranian crude, has been particularly affected. Mao Ning warned that further military escalation would not resolve the crisis, saying, “Military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem, and the escalation of conflicts is not in the interests of either side.” Beijing called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation to restore safe passage and regional stability.

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The remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump urged nations dependent on oil shipments through the strait to “take care of that passage” themselves. Trump also indicated that the conflict could continue for another two to three weeks, with potential strikes targeting critical Iranian infrastructure if negotiations fail.

The disruption has already sent shockwaves through global energy markets, with oil prices surging between 40 to 50 percent. Industries reliant on fuel have been hard hit, including airlines such as Air China, which announced increases in fuel surcharges on domestic routes. Analysts warn that sustained instability in the strait could prolong energy price volatility and further strain global supply chains.

Market experts say that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for stabilising international energy flows. Private and public sectors are closely monitoring developments, with international diplomacy expected to play a key role in resolving the crisis. China’s call for a negotiated solution highlights its strategic interest in protecting maritime energy imports and preventing long-term disruption to global oil supply.

China Blames US‑Israeli Strikes on Iran for Strait of Hormuz Blockage