China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, criticized recent U.S. and Israeli military actions on Iran, labeling them as unacceptable and urging an immediate ceasefire. China has a vested interest in Iran as a major oil supplier, with around 12 to 15% of Chinese oil imports originating from Iran, making uninterrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz critical to Beijing.
The attacks, which reportedly disrupted key sites and resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, complicate China’s position. While staunchly supporting Iran economically and diplomatically, China remains reluctant to engage militarily in the region.
China’s dependence on Iranian oil is significant, with imports averaging 1.5 million barrels daily since a March 2023 Iran-Saudi rapprochement. Most of this oil travels through vulnerable shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
China consistently condemns military interventions as part of its doctrine emphasizing national sovereignty and non-interference. While China maintains a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Iran, practical cooperation remains limited due to U.S. sanctions.
Economically, China benefits from discounted Iranian oil but continues to prioritize regional stability and energy security over deeper military involvement.
