Shafaqna Pakistan: China is unlikely to assist the United States in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, despite a request from Donald Trump. Analysts suggest that Beijing may instead view the situation as advantageous, particularly as tensions in the Middle East have led to a postponement of Trump’s anticipated visit to China.
These developments come as the ongoing conflict involving Iran enters its third week, with increasing pressure on Washington. Oil shipments through the strategically vital strait have come to a halt, while US allies have shown reluctance to take a more active role in securing the passage. This has raised concerns that China, regarded as Washington’s primary geopolitical rival, could benefit from a conflict some observers consider poorly calculated.
Ali Wyne, a senior adviser at the International Crisis Group, noted that the decision to postpone Trump’s long-planned meeting with Xi Jinping reflects a misjudgment of the consequences stemming from Operation Epic Fury. He argued that what was intended as a demonstration of US strength has instead exposed its limitations, as Washington now appears unable to reopen the Strait of Hormuz independently and may need to rely on its chief strategic competitor to manage the situation.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry gave a nonanswer when asked if it would help reopen the strait but repeated its call for “parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from further impacting the global economy.”
Beijing, which had never officially confirmed Trump’s state visit, originally scheduled for March 31, has signalled willingness to work with the US to reschedule the visit by stating that the two sides “remain in communication.” It even helped clarify that the postponement had nothing to do with Trump’s request for China to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
On Tuesday, Trump said the Chinese “were fine” with the delay and claimed “a very good working relationship with China.”
Sun Yun, director of the China programme at the Stimson Center, said, “I think the Iran request is now going to be less pressing for China to fulfil.” At the same time, Chinese diplomats have been engaging with countries in the Middle East, pledging a constructive role in easing tensions and restoring peace.
On Sunday, through the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, Beijing delivered to Iran an emergency humanitarian aid package of $200,000, earmarked for families of children and teachers killed in the bombing of the Shajarah Tayyebeh elementary school building in Minab, Iran, with the Chinese ambassador to Iran condemning the school attack.
Source: Dunya News
