The Chinese foreign ministry has slammed the United States blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a “dangerous and irresponsible” move that would only escalate tensions.
China also said it would further jeopardise the safety of ships passing through the critical waterway, which was effectively closed by Iran in response to the U.S.-Israeli strikes.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said only a complete ceasefire could lead to long-lasting peace.
"[The blockade] will only aggravate confrontation, escalate tension, undermine the already fragile ceasefire and further jeopardise safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. It is a dangerous and irresponsible move," Jiakun said.
These comments come after U.S. President Donald Trump said peace talks with Iran could resume in Pakistan in the coming days.
Trump said Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, was doing a "great job" on the talks.
"He's fantastic, and therefore it's more likely that we go back there," Trump said.
China has a key interest in the Strait being reopened, as the country is the largest buyer of Iranian crude.
The blockade cuts off that supply and potentially has a far-reaching impact on the Chinese economy.
Other countries have also criticised the blockade and refused to help Trump in the war.
The U.S. Central Command has claimed that more than 10,000 military personnel, more than a dozen warships and dozens of aircraft are involved in the blockade.
Oil prices have fallen back below US$100 per barrel amid reports of a diplomatic resolution to the six-week conflict.
