Kathmandu— China has stated its intention to safeguard its own interests following the United States’ announcement of new sanctions targeting Iran and entities within China, a key customer of Iranian oil. Speaking in Beijing on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called for an immediate end to unilateral measures and affirmed that cooperation between China and Iran operates within international law and should not be disrupted. The move comes as Washington expands secondary sanctions threats, urging global governments to participate in its economic campaign against Tehran.

US Sanctions Expansion

The United States is rolling out new penalties on entities including several based in China, nearly six months into the conflict involving Iran and Israel. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent asserted that no entity is exempt from potential sanctions, raising the possibility of targeting Chinese banks involved in trade with Iran. Washington’s expanded secondary sanctions aim to compel governments worldwide to join its economic pressure campaign against Tehran.

China's Response

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian firmly rejected Washington’s expanding pressure campaign, stating that China will take “all necessary measures” to protect its rights and interests. He reiterated China’s opposition to illegal unilateral sanctions and emphasized the legitimate nature of economic cooperation between Beijing and Tehran within the bounds of international law. China has long advocated for a ceasefire in the region, arguing that US sanctions are not an effective solution.

Analysts Predict Chinese Resistance

Some analysts believe threats to sanction Chinese entities over trade with Iran are unlikely to materialize due to diplomatic and legal obstacles. Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Washington-based Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, noted that imposing sanctions on China shortly before President Xi Jinping’s planned visit to Washington would be counterproductive. He highlighted China's past efforts to stabilize global oil prices during a period of crisis, indirectly benefiting the US economy. Majidreza Hariri, president of the Iran-China Chamber of Commerce and Industries, criticized US policies as an “economic war” against Tehran, warning that America’s economic targets and partners could be considered military targets.

Iran's Resilience

Despite decades of sanctions, Iran has continued to export millions of barrels of oil, primarily to China, utilizing complex international financial networks to circumvent restrictions. Beijing remains a crucial customer for Iranian oil and is directly affected by potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Prior to the recent conflict, Iran managed to maintain significant oil exports despite ongoing limitations.

The situation remains fluid as both the US and China signal their resolve on this issue, with further developments expected as President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington approaches.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.