United States President Donald Trump commended China for its restrained approach regarding the recent extended closure of the Strait of Hormuz, remarks made shortly before Chinese President Xi Jinping’s anticipated visit to Washington. Speaking to reporters, Trump noted that China had been “relatively inactive” compared to its potential involvement during the maritime disruption. He said the upcoming visit was a positive development, emphasizing a “very good relationship” between the two countries.
Trump expressed respect for Xi, suggesting that the Chinese leader now holds greater regard for the United States than in previous years. “I think he respects me and I think he respects our country again. He didn’t respect our country two years ago,” Trump stated.
The comments came amid ongoing tensions over US secondary sanctions targeting entities involved with Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently outlined new sanctions affecting 60 individuals and organizations worldwide, including parties in mainland China and Hong Kong. Bessent underscored that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions” and urged countries with economic ties to Iran to take immediate action.
When questioned about the absence of sanctions specifically targeting Chinese banks for their financial dealings with Iranian entities, Trump declined to disclose future measures, saying, “Who said I’m not? Well, I don’t have to announce everything, do I?”
China, which is Iran’s largest oil purchaser—accounting for over 80 percent of Iranian oil exports in 2025 according to industry analytics—has repeatedly denied allegations of sanction evasion. In response to the US sanctions, a spokesman for the Chinese embassy in Washington criticized the measures as “illicit unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law.” The spokesman affirmed Beijing’s commitment to protecting the “legitimate and lawful rights and interests” of Chinese companies.
The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission released a report in March accusing China of aiding Iran in circumventing global sanctions through financial networks, trade in dual-use technologies, and other channels. China has rejected these allegations.
As President Xi’s visit approaches, US officials continue to balance diplomatic engagement with efforts to enforce sanctions and address concerns about China’s role in international compliance with Iran-related restrictions.