China Warns It Will Defend Its Interests as US Moves to Expand Sanctions on Iran and Its Trading Partners

China has issued a sharp warning to Washington after the United States unveiled plans to widen economic sanctions on Iran and any nation doing business with Tehran  a move that directly targets Beijing’s long‑standing trade ties with the country.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said China “firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions” and vowed to take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its national interests. His remarks came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced what he described as “the single greatest financial offensive ever” against Iran, warning that banks and businesses worldwide would face isolation if they refused to cut ties.

China remains Iran’s largest buyer of oil, though volumes have declined under the US blockade of Iranian ports. Lin insisted that cooperation between the two countries “has always been conducted within the framework of international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted.”

Bessent declined to single out specific nations but said President Donald Trump would personally call world leaders with “specific requests” to halt interactions with Tehran. When asked about Chinese banks, he stressed that “no one was above the reach of US sanctions.”

The announcement comes ahead of planned talks next month between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, adding fresh tension to an already delicate diplomatic landscape. Washington is expected to be cautious, aware that China dominates global processing of rare earths and critical minerals, essential for high‑tech manufacturing. Beijing has previously tightened export controls on these materials during trade negotiations.

China’s response also followed comments from Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh, who said Tehran was “fully prepared” for the expanded sanctions. He claimed the measures would lead to “another defeat” for the US, adding that Iran had a two‑year plan ready to manage the fallout. “We also have our own tools and know how to play the game,” he said.

As both global powers brace for the next diplomatic showdown, the widening sanctions threaten to reshape trade flows, energy markets and geopolitical alliances across multiple regions.