China says US, Israeli attacks on Iran the ‘root cause’ of Hormuz strait blockage

China has accused the United States and Israel of being the root cause of the Strait of Hormuz blockage, following a recent call from US President Donald Trump for affected countries to seize the critical waterway. Trump's remarks came as the strait has been effectively closed by Iran in retaliation for the US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. The Chinese foreign ministry blamed the US and Israel for their military operations against Iran, which have led to disruptions in navigation through the strait.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is a vital chokepoint for global oil supplies, with about 30% of the world's oil passing through it. The blockage has sent global oil prices soaring by 40 to 50 percent, affecting economies worldwide. China, a major importer of oil through the strait, is particularly concerned about the disruptions, as it relies heavily on Iranian oil imports.

In a news conference, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that "the root cause of interruptions to navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is the United States and Israel's illegal military operations against Iran." Mao emphasized that military means cannot fundamentally solve the problem and that escalating conflicts is not in the interests of either side.

The situation arose after a series of US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, which have escalated tensions in the region. Iranians have responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, crippling oil exports and causing global markets to react. Trump's call for countries to seize the strait has further intensified the situation, with some nations considering the possibility of taking control of the waterway to ensure their oil supplies.

Trump, facing sinking approval ratings due to the conflict, has sought to assure that the situation is nearing an end. However, he also warned in a televised address that there would be another "two to three weeks" of heavy strikes that would "bring (Iran) back to the Stone Ages." If no agreement with Tehran is struck, he said, Washington would consider targeting key Iranian infrastructure, such as electricity generating plants.

China's stance on the issue reflects its strategic interests in maintaining stability in the region and ensuring uninterrupted oil supplies. As the main buyer of Iranian oil, China is particularly vulnerable to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The foreign ministry's criticism of the US and Israel highlights China's concerns about the potential consequences of military actions in the region.

The escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have raised global concerns about the stability of international energy markets and the potential for further conflict in the Middle East. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the involved parties will navigate the complexities of the situation and whether a diplomatic resolution can be achieved to prevent further escalation.