China Warns U.S. Over Potential Retaliatory Measures Against Iran Sanctions

Geopolitical tensions between China and the United States have escalated with potential economic repercussions as the U.S. threatens to further sanction companies in China over Iran. Beijing issued a stern warning, indicating that it may retaliate if Washington expands its sanctions campaign against Tehran to target Chinese firms. This comes after the U.S. Treasury Department announced measures aimed at intensifying pressure on Iran and threatening countries that continue trade with Teheran with exclusion from the dollar-based financial system. According to reports by The Financial Times, China expressed concern over any significant extension of secondary sanctions to its businesses and pledged to take 'all necessary measures' to protect its interests. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson also reiterated Beijing’s opposition to unilateral sanctions imposed without UN Security Council authorization, urging a de-escalation and negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. The latest round of sanctions included 60 individuals, companies, and vessels, including entities in mainland China and Hong Kong. Major Chinese banks suspected of facilitating Iranian oil trade were not directly targeted this time. U.S. statements about potential sanctions against these banks are seen as a cautious step in the ongoing economic and diplomatic tensions between Beijing and Washington.