On August 20, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian presided over a regular press conference. During the meeting, a journalist asked that U.S. President Donald Trump announced the implementation of "the most severe economic measures against any country," targeting Iran's trading partners. Some analysts believe that Trump's threats could have an impact on China. What is the Foreign Ministry's comment on this?
Lin Jian said that sanctions and pressure do not help solve the issue. China calls on all relevant parties to take responsible measures and resolve the issue through political and diplomatic channels.
On August 19 local time, Trump posted a statement on the “Truth Social” platform, stating that Iran “failed to seize the opportunity to reach an agreement with the United States.” Therefore, he announced the implementation of “the most severe economic measures ever” against Iran. He claimed that this would be an unprecedented “economic war and economic isolation,” aimed at weakening Iran’s capabilities.
Trump claimed that any country that allows his financial institutions, businesses, airports, or government entities to provide support to Iran will face “huge economic consequences.” He demanded an immediate halt to activities such as oil smuggling, currency swaps, cash transfers, ship registration, and the use of shell companies.
According to a report by CNN on the 18th, a US official stated that Trump had instructed his senior envoy to suspend talks with Iran. The official revealed that Trump was dissatisfied with Iran’s refusal to comply with his demands. He wanted to resume negotiations only after Iran’s leaders expressed a new willingness to reach the agreements he sought.
Iranian Parliament member for National Security and Foreign Policy Affairs, Rezaie, emphasized on the 19th that if Iran’s interests are harmed anywhere in the world, Iran will take countermeasures against hostile countries and governments in the Hormuz Strait by raising tariffs or confiscating assets.
