Beijing has strongly opposed unilateral sanctions by the United States targeting Chinese companies over alleged links to Iran, calling the measures “illegal and not supported by international law.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that China firmly rejects unilateral sanctions imposed by the US that are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council.
The remarks followed sanctions announced by the US Treasury Department on nine mainland Chinese and Hong Kong companies and individuals, accusing them of helping Iran’s military.
The list includes 12 individuals and entities accused of involvement in procuring weapons and technology for Iran’s military use.
He added that Beijing consistently requires Chinese companies to conduct business in accordance with laws and regulations and intends to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
“As for the situation in Iran, China has repeatedly stated its firm position. The most pressing task is to make every effort to prevent the resumption of war, rather than maliciously using the conflict to smear other countries,” he said.
The decision, which risks complicating a planned visit to China by Donald Trump next week, was announced on Friday by the Treasury and State Departments.
Referring to the broader regional situation, Guo said the priority should be de-escalation rather than political blame. “The most pressing task is to make every effort to prevent the resumption of war, rather than maliciously using the conflict to smear other countries,” he added.
The US sanctions reportedly targeted companies based in Hong Kong and mainland China, as well as one firm in the United Arab Emirates, along with an individual alleged to be connected to a Chinese industrial company.
Beijing reiterated that it has consistently maintained its position on Iran-related tensions and urged restraint from actions that could further escalate the situation.
