China warns it will safeguard its interests after US widens sanctions against Iran
China has vowed to protect its interests after the US announced a significant expansion of economic sanctions against Iran and its international trading partners. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that nations and businesses continuing to partner with Iran will face isolation from the US financial system.
Why it matters
This escalation threatens to disrupt global supply chains, particularly in the energy and high-tech sectors, as tensions rise between the US and China ahead of upcoming diplomatic talks.
Figure caption, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says US will "tighten the noose" around Iranian revenue sources
China has vowed to protect its interests after the US announced plans to widen economic sanctions against Iran and its trading partners, which include Beijing.
Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said China was firmly opposed to what it called "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights.
This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the new measures on Monday, warning any nation financially partnering with Iran would be isolated.
China is the biggest buyer of Iranian oil, although the trade has declined under the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Lin said: "Cooperation between China and Iran has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted."
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