China vows to protect rights as US readies Iran sanctions

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian warned on Monday that sanctions and pressure tactics "lead to escalation," stressing that "escalation serves no one's interests." Speaking to reporters in Beijing, Lin said China calls on parties to act rationally and with restraint to avoid measures that may further escalate tensions or harm global economic growth and financial stability.

US targets Iran's trading partners

Lin was responding to questions regarding the Trump administration's move to impose sweeping economic penalties on Tehran and its trading partners amid the ongoing war between Washington and Tehran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned third-party countries against maintaining commercial ties with Iran, urging international buyers — particularly China, the world's largest importer of Iranian crude — to halt purchases or risk severe secondary sanctions and financial penalties.

Tehran condemns 'economic terrorism'

Iran has condemned the proposed sanctions as "economic terrorism" and declared they are "bound to fail." Lin urged the warring parties to "return to the right track of political settlement through dialogue and negotiations at an early date," adding that China "will closely watch relevant developments and do what is necessary to protect our legitimate rights and interests."