China calls for Hormuz stability amid US-Iran tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday appealed for a broad ceasefire in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, while stressing that secure and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains vital for both regional actors and the global economy. His remarks came during a phone conversation with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscoring Beijing’s growing diplomatic engagement in the Middle East.

Call for stability in Strait of Hormuz

Xi pointed out that maintaining open maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz is in the shared interest of regional countries and the wider international community. The waterway, a critical النفط transit corridor, has become increasingly sensitive amid rising العسكري tensions between Washington and Tehran. China’s leadership reiterated support for cooperative regional frameworks focused on security, development, and long-term stability.

China promotes diplomatic resolution

During the conversation, Xi reaffirmed Beijing’s position in favor of an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire,” adding that China backs all diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring peace. He emphasized that disputes in the Middle East should be resolved through political dialogue rather than military escalation, aligning with China’s broader foreign policy approach in conflict zones.

Saudi ties and regional diplomacy

The Chinese president also expressed readiness to deepen strategic trust and expand practical cooperation with Saudi Arabia, signaling Beijing’s intent to strengthen its influence in الخليج politics. The call marks Xi’s first direct engagement with a Middle Eastern leader since the outbreak of hostilities involving the US and Israel against Iran on Feb. 28.

US-Iran talks and Pakistan’s mediation role

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump announced plans to send American officials to Islamabad for renewed discussions with Iranian representatives. Tehran has yet to formally respond but has demanded the removal of US sanctions targeting its ports. Pakistan previously facilitated indirect negotiations between the two sides on April 11-12, marking the highest-level contact since diplomatic ties were severed in 1979.

Tehran signals cautious diplomacy

Although those talks ended without a breakthrough, they resulted in a temporary ceasefire that took effect on April 8. Iranian officials are expected to continue diplomatic engagement, though Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei rejected external pressure, stating that Iran “does not accept deadlines or ultimatums.” President Masoud Pezeshkian also signaled openness to dialogue, calling for “every rational and diplomatic path” to reduce tensions, while noting that prolonged conflict serves no party’s interests.