Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz during a press briefing on Thursday, April 2, 2026, attributing navigation obstructions to what she described as "illegal U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran." The remarks came in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent call for countries to "take oil" from the strategic waterway.
Ning emphasized that a lasting solution requires an immediate ceasefire and restoration of stability in the Gulf region. "Only through ending hostilities can we ensure the safety of international shipping lanes and prevent further disruptions to global energy security," she stated, urging all parties to prioritize diplomatic efforts over military escalation.
The spokesperson’s comments highlight growing concerns over the ripple effects of regional conflicts on worldwide trade and energy markets. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could exacerbate inflation and supply chain challenges, particularly for Asian economies reliant on Gulf oil exports.
