China has opposed US secondary sanctions on Iran, warning that unilateral economic pressure could deepen tensions and disrupt the wider global economy. Beijing issued the response on Tuesday after reports said Washington had threatened penalties against countries that continue trading with Tehran. Beijing’s response highlights concern over measures that could affect international commerce beyond the countries directly involved in the dispute.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks during a regular press briefing. He said China firmly rejects sanctions that lack a basis in international law or do not have approval from the United Nations Security Council. Lin said Beijing would take all necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests. He did not specify what measures China might take, but stressed that Beijing would act to defend its interests.
The issue centres on possible US secondary sanctions on Iran, which could affect countries and businesses maintaining commercial ties with Tehran. Such measures could place additional pressure on Iran’s trading partners and influence their economic decisions. Beijing has repeatedly linked its position on sanctions to respect for international law and the authority of the UN Security Council.
Lin said economic confrontation and a policy of maximum pressure would not resolve the underlying issue. Instead, he warned that continued pressure could increase regional tensions and create risks that spread beyond the immediate parties. The Chinese government has also urged the parties to avoid steps that could make the situation more difficult to resolve through diplomacy.
The Chinese official further warned that sanctions could have wider economic consequences. Disruptions to international trade and financial activity could affect the global economic and financial order, while also harming the legitimate interests of countries conducting lawful business with Iran. China has therefore raised concerns about the broader effects of unilateral economic restrictions.
Beijing has called for tensions to ease and for the parties to return to dialogue and negotiations. Lin said the immediate priority should be reducing confrontation and restoring diplomatic engagement as soon as possible. China’s position places diplomacy and negotiations at the centre of efforts to address the dispute.
China’s latest comments reinforce its opposition to US secondary sanctions on Iran and similar unilateral measures. Beijing says economic pressure will not provide a lasting solution and has urged the parties to pursue dialogue instead. The statement follows reports of possible US action against Iran’s trading partners and renewed concerns about the effect of such measures on international economic relations.
