As U.S. President Donald Trump asked five countries, including Korea, to dispatch warships to the Strait of Hormuz, China avoided giving a direct answer and said halting mutual hostile acts should come first.
A Spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the United States, responding to a CNN question on the 15th (local time) about whether there are plans to deploy naval assets to the Strait of Hormuz, said, "China is urging an immediate halt to hostile acts," adding, "All parties have a responsibility to ensure a stable and uninterrupted energy supply."
The Spokesperson added, "As a true friend and strategic partner of Middle Eastern countries, China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant countries, including the parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role in easing tensions and restoring peace."
Earlier, President Trump said on the social media platform Truth Social that "many countries, especially those affected by Iran's attempts to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, will be sending warships with the United States to keep the strait open and safe," and he asked five countries, including Korea, China, and Japan, to send troops.
The response from the Chinese Embassy in the United States did not immediately reject the Trump administration's request, but the prevailing view is that China is unlikely to cooperate. Iran is said to be allowing tankers bound for China, with which it has long maintained friendly ties, to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without attack.