China Urges Restraint After U.S. Seizes Iranian-Flagged Ship in Strait of Hormuz
China expressed concern on Monday after the United States seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling for restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts as tensions in the strategic waterway continue to rise.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described the incident as a “forced interception” and urged all parties to act responsibly and avoid further escalation.
“The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is sensitive and complicated,” Guo said. “Relevant parties should exercise restraint and create the necessary conditions for the resumption of normal transit through the strait.”
The U.S. military earlier announced that it had fired upon and seized the vessel after it allegedly attempted to breach a blockade of Iranian ports currently being enforced in the region. According to Washington, the action was taken to uphold maritime restrictions imposed as part of its strategy to pressure Iran during ongoing tensions.
Iran’s military strongly condemned the move, claiming the cargo ship had departed from China and accusing the United States of carrying out what it described as “armed piracy.” Tehran warned that it reserves the right to retaliate against the seizure.
Beijing also called on all sides to maintain diplomatic momentum, emphasizing the importance of continuing ceasefire discussions.
“Now that a window for peace has opened, favourable conditions should be created to bring the war to an end as soon as possible,” Guo added.
The incident highlights the fragile situation in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. Control over maritime traffic in the narrow passage has become a key point of dispute between Washington and Tehran during the ongoing confrontation.
The waterway has experienced repeated closures and reopenings in recent months. Iran previously restricted passage following strikes during the conflict, while the United States later imposed a blockade aimed at forcing Tehran back to the negotiating table.
