China slams US action over Iran ports, UN urges safe navigation in Hormuz
Beijing believes that only a comprehensive ceasefire can fundamentally create conditions for easing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson says
China has criticised the United States' blockade of Iranian ports, describing it as "dangerous and irresponsible," while the United Nations has urged all parties to respect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions, reports Al Jazeera
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the United States had "increased military operations and taken a targeted blockade action," which would "only exacerbate tensions and undermine the already fragile ceasefire agreement."
Speaking at a news briefing, he further warned that the US move "further jeopardises safety of passage through the Strait," calling it "dangerous and irresponsible behaviour."
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Beijing, Guo said, "believes that only a comprehensive ceasefire can fundamentally create conditions for easing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz."
Meanwhile, the UN has called on all sides to ensure safe maritime movement through the strategic waterway as the US military blockade of Iranian maritime traffic continues.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said UN Secretary-General António Guterres is urging "all parties" to uphold freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The appeal comes after failed US-Iran talks held in Islamabad, further heightening concerns over regional stability and global energy route security.
