China has expressed support for the recently announced ceasefire in the Middle East, highlighting its role in efforts that led to a temporary halt in hostilities between the United States and Iran.
Beijing said Tehran’s decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for a limited period has helped ease global concerns, particularly as the route is vital for the movement of oil, gas and fertiliser.
The development came just before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump, who had earlier threatened severe military action if Iran refused to engage in negotiations.
“China welcomes relevant parties announcing the reaching of a ceasefire agreement,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a press briefing, without directly responding to Trump’s remarks about China’s involvement.
“We have repeatedly introduced the efforts made by China,” she added, noting that Foreign Minister Wang Yi had held multiple discussions with counterparts, while China’s Middle East envoy actively engaged across the region.
She stated that China would “continue to make efforts to ease the situation and achieve a complete end to the war”.
Under the agreement, the United States will suspend attacks on Iran for two weeks, while Tehran will temporarily reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to Washington.
Israel has backed the move but clarified that the ceasefire “does not include Lebanon”.
Meanwhile, Iran has put forward a 10-point proposal aimed at ending the conflict, which Trump described as “workable”.