China is expected to use its influence with Iran to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who said the move is in Beijing’s economic interest as global energy markets remain under pressure.
Bessent explained that China relies heavily on oil imports from the Middle East, including large amounts of crude oil from Iran, making the reopening of the key shipping route important for Beijing. He added that China could play a behind-the-scenes role in encouraging Iranian leaders to ease restrictions in the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, previously carrying nearly 20% of global crude oil shipments before tensions escalated in the region. Iran reportedly blocked the strait earlier this year following U.S. and Israeli military strikes that targeted several top Iranian leaders.
During a two-day summit in Beijing, President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly discussed the ongoing Middle East crisis and the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for global energy trade.
A White House official said both leaders agreed that the waterway should remain open to support the free flow of energy supplies worldwide. China also reportedly voiced opposition to any effort to militarize the strait or impose toll charges on ships passing through the route.
Iran has recently claimed greater control over the narrow sea lane, making the issue a major obstacle in stalled peace negotiations with the United States. Reports also suggest Tehran has considered implementing a payment system for vessels crossing the strait.
Chinese state media later confirmed that Trump and Xi discussed several international and regional issues, including tensions in the Middle East, though the Strait of Hormuz was not specifically mentioned in official summaries.
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