US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that Washington wants China to pressure Iran to change its stance on the Gulf situation, amid ongoing regional tensions affecting global shipping routes.
Speaking in an interview, Rubio stated that China should encourage Iran to step back from its current actions in the Gulf, arguing that it is also in Beijing’s interest to help resolve the crisis due to its reliance on maritime trade routes.
Read More: Gulf clashes threaten fragile US–Iran ceasefire
He said China itself is being affected by the situation, claiming that Chinese vessels have also been impacted in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global chokepoint for energy and commercial shipping.
Rubio emphasised that stabilising the region would benefit not only the United States but also China and other major economies dependent on uninterrupted maritime trade through the Gulf.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is pressing China to use its leverage against Iran over Tehran’s actions in the Persian Gulf. pic.twitter.com/ZYBAxHAcjE
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He further suggested that China has an important role to play in de-escalating tensions, given its economic ties with Iran and its growing global influence.
According to Rubio, cooperation between major powers could help prevent further disruption in global supply chains, particularly in energy transportation and shipping security.
The US State Department also stated that Washington and Beijing have agreed that no country should impose taxes or restrictions on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the region.
The statement comes at a time of heightened geopolitical sensitivity in the Gulf following the Iran conflict, which has raised concerns over maritime security and energy supply stability.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, and any disruption in the area has the potential to significantly impact global markets.
Read More: Rubio says Iran response needed today
While tensions persist, US officials continue to call for diplomatic engagement among major powers to prevent further escalation and ensure safe passage for international shipping.
Rubio’s remarks highlight Washington’s broader strategy of involving influential global players like China in regional security issues linked to Iran and Gulf stability.