U.S. Asks China to Prevent Iran from Closing Strait of Hormuz
As of 05:00 PM PKT on Monday, June 23, 2025, the United States has urged China to dissuade Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route, amid escalating tensions following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the appeal, emphasizing China’s significant reliance on the strait for oil imports, particularly from Iran. The request comes after Iran’s parliament reportedly approved a measure to close the strait, though the final decision rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, facilitates the passage of about 20% of the world’s oil and gas, making it a vital chokepoint for global energy markets. Rubio, speaking on Fox News, warned that such a closure would be "economic suicide" for Iran, given its own oil exports depend on the route, and could trigger severe economic repercussions worldwide. He highlighted China’s position as Iran’s largest oil buyer—importing over 1.8 million barrels per day—suggesting Beijing has leverage to influence Tehran.
Iran’s potential retaliation follows U.S. strikes that targeted key nuclear facilities, with President Donald Trump claiming the operation "obliterated" Iran’s enrichment capabilities. However, the UN and IAEA have been unable to fully assess the damage, and Iran insists the impact was minimal. Oil prices have risen, with Brent crude hitting a five-month high, reflecting market anxiety over the strait’s potential closure.
China has not yet publicly responded, though its UN ambassador has called for restraint and a ceasefire, criticizing the U.S. strikes as destabilizing. Analysts suggest Iran may hesitate due to economic risks, including alienating China and neighboring Gulf states. The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain stands ready to counter any moves, but the situation remains fluid, with fears of broader conflict and oil price spikes looming. Posts on X indicate mixed reactions, with some mocking the U.S. request to China and others debating the geopolitical stakes.
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