Beijing: China has sharply criticised the latest sanctions imposed by the United States on several Chinese companies accused of supporting Iran’s military and energy sectors, deepening tensions between the world’s two largest economies at a sensitive moment in global politics.
The Chinese government said it firmly opposes what it described as “illegal unilateral sanctions” and promised to protect the rights and interests of Chinese businesses targeted by Washington. The dispute comes as the Middle East faces growing instability and as relations between China and the United States remain strained over trade, technology, and global security issues.
The latest American sanctions were announced after Washington accused a number of Chinese companies of helping Iran obtain materials and technology connected to drone and missile production. US officials also claimed that some firms provided support services linked to satellite imagery and intelligence operations used by Iran during recent military activities in the Middle East.
China’s Foreign Ministry strongly rejected the accusations. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing opposes the use of sanctions and what China calls the abuse of “long arm jurisdiction” by the United States. He added that Chinese companies operate according to Chinese law and that Beijing would take necessary steps to defend them.
The new sanctions are part of a broader campaign by the administration of US President Donald Trump to increase pressure on Iran. Washington has been trying to cut off Iran’s oil revenues and weaken the country’s military supply networks following the collapse of recent peace efforts between the two sides.
In recent weeks, the United States also targeted several smaller Chinese oil refineries accused of importing Iranian crude oil despite existing restrictions. These refiners, often known as “teapot refineries,” play an important role in China’s energy market.
China responded strongly to those earlier sanctions as well. For the first time, Beijing reportedly used its anti sanctions law to block enforcement of American measures against Chinese firms. Chinese authorities told companies and institutions inside the country not to cooperate with the US restrictions.
At the same time, reports suggest that Chinese financial regulators have privately advised some banks to slow or pause new loans to sanctioned companies. Analysts believe this shows that while China wants to resist American pressure publicly, it is also trying to avoid major financial risks that could affect its economy and banking system.
The sanctions dispute is unfolding during a period of rising global concern over Iran and the wider Middle East. Oil prices have increased in recent days after President Trump rejected Iran’s latest response to a US backed peace proposal, calling Tehran’s position “totally unacceptable.”
There are also fears that instability around the Strait of Hormuz could affect global oil shipments. The strategic waterway is one of the world’s most important energy routes, and any disruption there could impact fuel prices and economic stability worldwide.
China has close economic ties with Iran and remains one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil. At the same time, Beijing has tried to present itself as a neutral global power that supports dialogue and peaceful solutions. Experts say China now faces the difficult challenge of balancing its partnership with Iran while also managing its tense relationship with Washington.
Political observers believe the issue could become one of the key topics during an expected meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month in Beijing. The United States is likely to push China to reduce support for Iran, while China is expected to resist any attempts to limit its trade and economic activities.
The growing disagreement over sanctions reflects the wider rivalry between Washington and Beijing, with both countries increasingly competing for influence in international affairs.