Beijing rejects unilateral sanctions and warns that military pressure and economic restrictions could deepen tensions rather than resolve conflict

BEIJING: China on Friday renewed its call for negotiations between the United States and Iran, warning that military action, sanctions and mounting pressure would intensify tensions rather than resolve the continuing conflict.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks in Beijing after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans to impose what he described as the “toughest sanctions in history” against Tehran.

Lin said China consistently believed that military measures and economic pressure could not provide an effective solution to the crisis.

Furthermore, he argued that continued escalation would serve neither side’s interests and urged the parties to return to political engagement.

Beijing Rejects Unilateral Economic Pressure

Responding to questions about Washington’s latest measures, Lin called on relevant parties to resolve their disputes through negotiations and dialogue.

He also reiterated China’s opposition to unilateral sanctions imposed without authorisation from the United Nations.

The comments came after Tehran described Washington’s latest economic measures as “economic terrorism.”

China remains the world’s second-largest economy and a major importer of Iranian oil, making Beijing’s position particularly significant as Washington seeks to increase Tehran’s economic isolation.

Washington Threatens Sweeping Enforcement Measures

Meanwhile, Bessent said the United States would use its economic power against countries and entities involved in transferring money, purchasing Iranian oil or conducting seaborne transportation connected with Iran.

Speaking to CNBC, the Treasury secretary described the strategy as an unprecedented coordinated campaign to economically isolate Tehran.

Moreover, Bessent warned governments and businesses that Washington would expect them to choose between maintaining economic dealings with Iran and avoiding US punitive measures.

However, Beijing rejected that approach and maintained that sanctions without UN approval lacked legitimacy.

Lin said China hoped all sides would act responsibly and pursue a political settlement to the crisis.

Consequently, Beijing continues to advocate diplomacy as tensions rise between Washington and Tehran, arguing that negotiations offer the most viable route toward preventing further regional escalation.