US Treasury Secretary Accuses China of Funding Iran, Urges Beijing to Help Reopen Strait of Hormuz

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has publicly accused China of financially supporting Iran, the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism, by purchasing 90% of its energy exports. He urged Beijing to assist Washington in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked amid escalating tensions.

This sharp criticism comes just days before President Donald Trump’s anticipated visit to Beijing, where he is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global shipping route, and its closure has significant implications for international trade and regional security.

China’s Role in Funding Iran’s Energy Sector

Scott Bessent highlighted that China purchases the vast majority of Iran’s energy exports, effectively funding Tehran’s activities. He described Iran as the largest state sponsor of terrorism and criticized China for enabling this through its energy imports.

Despite these accusations, Bessent called on China to leverage its influence over Iran to help resolve the crisis and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation.

The Strait of Hormuz Blockade and US Response

Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted a critical maritime passage, prompting the US to launch 'Project Freedom'—an operation to guide stranded ships safely through the strait. President Trump warned Iran against interfering with this mission.

Bessent asserted that the US maintains 'absolute control' over the strait and urged China to join the international effort to counter Iran’s actions.

Diplomatic Tensions at the United Nations

China and Russia have vetoed UN Security Council resolutions condemning Iran’s blockade, arguing that such measures are one-sided and fail to address US and Israeli actions against Iran.

Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong criticized the draft resolution for lacking a comprehensive and balanced view of the conflict.

US-China Relations Amid Rising Tensions

The dispute over Iran comes despite recent signs of stability in US-China relations, including a preliminary trade deal reached late last year. Bessent noted the mutual respect between Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping, which he believes has contributed to this stability.

However, longstanding disagreements on trade, territorial claims, and Taiwan continue to challenge the relationship. The US has shifted its foreign policy focus toward the Western Hemisphere, potentially easing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Diplomatic Engagement

As President Trump prepares to visit Beijing, the international community watches closely to see if China will step up diplomatically to help resolve the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

The outcome of this engagement could significantly impact regional stability, global energy markets, and the broader US-China relationship.