BEIJING: China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, called on Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi Tuesday, emphasizing that “talking is always better” than fighting, amid escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The war has intensified across the Middle East, disrupting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for nearly a fifth of global oil shipments.
The call came after US President Donald Trump claimed his administration was in contact with a “top person” in Iran’s leadership while extending by five days a deadline to target Iranian power plants. Tehran, however, dismissed such claims. Parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said “no negotiations” were ongoing, accusing Trump of attempting to manipulate global financial and oil markets.
China, a key Iranian partner, reiterated its opposition to Tehran’s strikes on Gulf states hosting US bases and urged all parties to pursue a ceasefire. Wang told Araghchi that “every opportunity and window for peace should be seized” to start negotiations promptly. In response, Iran confirmed it aims for a comprehensive end to hostilities, not a temporary ceasefire, and assured safe passage through the strait for vessels not involved in the conflict.
The conversation, initiated at Iran’s request, also included appreciation for China’s humanitarian support. Trump postponed his planned Beijing visit, calling on China and others to help reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
