Beijing warns of rising tensions amid fragile ceasefire.
On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described the blockade announced by the United States in the Strait of Hormuz as “dangerous and irresponsible.”
RELATED:
China Advocates Peace in the Gulf Region: Premier Li
He pointed out that the reinforcement of U.S. military deployments and blockade actions will raise tensions and “undermine the already fragile ceasefire” between Iran and the United States.
Guo stressed that the situation is at a “critical stage” and emphasized that the priority must be to avoid a resumption of hostilities and preserve the current temporary cessation of fighting.
He also urged all parties involved in the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran to respect the commitments reached and to move forward through dialogue.
The Chinese spokesperson called for negotiation, stating that only through a “comprehensive ceasefire” can conditions be created to ease the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and guarantee the safety of navigation.
During the press conference, Guo declined to comment on a tanker linked to China that is reportedly operating in the area, limiting himself to stressing the need to ensure the smooth flow of maritime traffic.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, is experiencing a period of high tension after weeks of restrictions imposed by Iran on maritime traffic in response to the U.S.-Israeli attacks.
This has now been compounded by Washington’s announcement that it will block and intercept vessels following the failure of negotiations with Tehran in Pakistan.
[ SOURCE: teleSUR ]
