Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, a key figure in the negotiations with the United States, met with his counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing in his first visit since the outbreak of Operation “Lion’s Roar,” against the backdrop of tensions between Tehran and Washington over the Strait of Hormuz.
During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized China’s positions regarding the preservation of Iran’s sovereignty, security, and stability, called for an urgent ceasefire, and stressed the importance of political negotiations. Wang also called for the restoration of “normal and safe” passage through the strait, but did not address the reasons for its closure or the payment Iran demands in exchange for granting vessels the right to pass through it. On the nuclear issue, Wang stated that China appreciates Iran’s commitment to avoiding the development of nuclear weapons, but believes Iran has the legitimate right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. According to him, China encourages the Gulf states to conduct regional dialogue in order to achieve good neighborly relations and a regional peace agreement. These remarks align with President Xi Jinping’s Global Security Initiative, במסגרת which ideas have been raised for establishing regional security frameworks.
These remarks come amid reports that China is supplying Iran with components and materials for military use, alongside rhetorical support at the UN and purchases of Iranian oil in violation of sanctions. Nevertheless, it appears that Beijing is unwilling to commit to Iran beyond this support, partly because China itself is harmed by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and also because the war in general, and the closure of the strait in particular, harm the other Gulf states, with whom China’s relations are deeper than with Iran.
Next week, Presidents Trump and Xi are expected to meet, and it is highly likely that the issue of Iran will come up.
