Eyes on Beijing in the Strait of Hormuz crisis: China condemns US and Israel, offers 'limited' support to Iran

The US-Israel attacks that began in the Middle East on February 28 quickly turned into a large-scale operation targeting Iran's security infrastructure. The scale of the conflict grew with assassinations of high-ranking Iranian military and political figures, as well as strikes on missile facilities and bases belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The process has revealed a picture that has evolved from controlled tension to open interstate war.

IRAN RETALIATES AGAINST REGIONAL COUNTRIES

Iran responded to the attacks on its territory with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel, as well as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

Major energy facilities located in these countries and American military assets were also affected by the attacks. The moves against military and energy infrastructure in the region have expanded the geographical scope of the conflict.

CLOSURE OF THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ SHAKES ENERGY MARKETS

In addition to the military dimension of the clashes, the economic effects were felt rapidly. Following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, there were sharp fluctuations in global energy markets.

As Brent crude oil prices rose, insurance costs and shipping risk premiums increased. Experts warned that if the conflict drags on, there could be fractures in energy supply chains.

CHINA IS IRAN'S LARGEST OIL CUSTOMER

The developments have brought Iran's position in the global energy market back to the agenda. The stance of China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, has begun to be closely monitored.

China meets approximately 70 percent of its oil needs through imports. About half of these imports are provided through the Strait of Hormuz. In addition to Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are also among China's primary energy suppliers.

For this reason, the Beijing administration is closely following the tension in the region.

STRONG CONDEMNATION AND CEASEFIRE CALL FROM BEIJING

The Chinese administration condemned the actions of the US and Israel in harsh terms. Beijing argued that the nuclear negotiations being conducted with Iran were on track and stated that the attacks had disrupted the diplomatic process.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with the foreign ministers of Oman, Iran, and France on Monday.

According to Wang Yi's assessment, the US and Israel deliberately sabotaged the diplomatic process, dragging the region into an “irreversible situation.” China reiterated its call for a ceasefire and invited the parties to return to the negotiating table.

THE LIMITS OF SUPPORT FOR IRAN

China stands out as one of the major economies that supports Iran economically. The Beijing administration defines Iran as a “friend” and clearly states that it supports Iran's right to defend its territory and interests.

However, Wang Yi did not state that he supports Iran's potential military retaliation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry responded to questions in this direction by denying allegations that weapons were being supplied or military aid was being provided to Iran.