China says US, Israeli attacks on Iran the ‘root cause’ of Hormuz blockage
Why it matters: Global oil prices have risen to US$100 per barrel, impacting airlines and consumers worldwide.
- China attributes the Strait of Hormuz blockage to "illegal military operations" by the United States and Israel against Iran, rejecting military solutions.
- US President Donald Trump urged countries reliant on the Strait of Hormuz to "just take it, protect it, use it for yourselves," threatening further strikes against Iran's infrastructure.
- Global oil prices have surged by 40-50% to around US$100 per barrel, leading Air China and other international airlines like Air France-KLM and Cathay Pacific to raise fuel surcharges and reroute flights.
- The Philippines is holding talks with Iran regarding safe passage through the strait, while India has received assurances from Iran that its citizens are safe.
- Britain is facilitating discussions among 40 countries on strategies to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, indicating broad international concern and coordination.
- China is reportedly importing US oil to supply Asian fuel markets, highlighting a complex dynamic amid the crisis despite its official condemnation of US actions.
China blames US and Israeli military operations against Iran as the "root cause" of the Strait of Hormuz blockage, a stance that contrasts with US President Trump's call for affected nations to seize the waterway. While global oil prices surge and airlines raise fares, other nations like the Philippines and India are engaging directly with Iran to ensure safe passage, and Britain is coordinating a 40-country discussion on reopening the strait.
