China Negotiates with Iran to Restore Hormuz Shipping

The Government of China is negotiating with Iran to secure safe passage for crude oil and Qatari liquefied natural gas vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. These diplomatic efforts follow the outbreak of conflict around February 28, 2026, involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has effectively paralyzed the waterway. The disruption has cut off approximately 20% of global oil and LNG supplies and driven crude oil prices up by more than 15%.

Iran has attacked energy facilities in the Gulf and launched missiles at Cyprus, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye. While the Government of Iran banned vessels from the United States, Israel, and European allies, it did not include China in the restriction. Consequently, some Chinese and Iranian-owned ships have continued to transit the area, and tanker traffic, which averaged 24 vessels daily, dropped to just four by March 1.

By March 7, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China urged all parties to cease military actions to prevent further global economic disruption. This escalation has prompted NATO to increase its missile defense posture following strikes toward Türkiye, while France warned that Lebanon could be drawn into the conflict.