China Calls for Immediate Reopening of Strait of Hormuz, Warns of Global Risks
China on Wednesday called for the immediate resumption of maritime traffic through the China, warning that the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran could trigger severe economic and humanitarian consequences worldwide.
“The war should not have happened and nor should the world, especially smaller nations, bear its brunt,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told reporters in Beijing. He said the conflict has caused “heavy casualties” and created major spillover effects that are disrupting global growth and stability.
Guo was responding to a recent International Monetary Fund report, which lowered its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.1%, down from 3.3% in January, while also projecting inflation at 4.4% this year before easing to 3.7% in 2027. He stressed that the immediate priority must be to prevent a return to fighting, restore maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, and avoid further damage to global energy security and economic stability.
He also accused the United States of effectively enforcing a blockade of the strategic waterway, through which many Asian countries import critical energy supplies from the Middle East. Commenting on diplomatic efforts, Guo said China welcomes all initiatives aimed at ending the US–Iran conflict and praised Pakistan for what he described as its “just and balanced” role in facilitating a temporary ceasefire and hosting talks between the two sides.
Guo added that maintaining the fragile momentum of the 14-day ceasefire should remain a priority through diplomatic channels. He also confirmed that both China and the United States continue to communicate regarding a potential visit by US President Donald Trump to China, with dates still under discussion following a reported postponement.
