U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on China to use its diplomatic influence and push Iran toward ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Bessent made the statement in a May 4 interview with Fox News.
According to Bessent, China has significant leverage over Iran because, as he said, Beijing buys 90% of Iran’s energy resources. “China needs to show more diplomatic activity and convince the Iranians to reopen the strait”, he said.
The U.S. Treasury Secretary also noted that the Strait of Hormuz issue will be discussed during the planned May 14-15 meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in Beijing. According to Bessent, Washington expects China to play a more active role in ensuring international maritime security.
China says that the safe and uninterrupted functioning of the Strait of Hormuz is in the common interest of regional states and the international community. At the same time, Beijing identifies U.S. and Israeli military actions as the “root cause” of the crisis and sees a ceasefire, de-escalation, and dialogue as the way forward.
Iran’s position is that the Strait of Hormuz is not closed and navigation has not been fully suspended. Tehran says it respects freedom of navigation, but links it to the protection of state security. According to Iran, the restrictions apply only to vessels associated with the United States, Israel, or parties connected to them, while other “non-hostile” ships can pass safely through the strait. Tehran holds the U.S. and Israel responsible for the threats that have emerged in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the key routes for global energy supplies. Rising tensions in the region have put pressure on oil prices, while Washington is seeking to involve Beijing in efforts to influence Iran. The issue has become one of the important topics in U.S.–China relations ahead of the expected meeting between Trump and Xi.
