Trump says Xi offered help on Iran as China seeks to keep Hormuz open

US President Donald Trump stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping offered assistance in resolving the conflict with Iran and ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This offer, made during an interview with Fox News, highlights the connection between Middle East tensions and broader US-China relations. Trump indicated that President Xi expressed a desire for a resolution and willingness to help if possible. The reported offer comes amid growing concerns about potential disruptions to oil shipping in the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.

During a meeting on Thursday, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Strait of Hormuz, agreeing that the waterway "must remain open to support the free flow of energy." The White House stated that Xi also conveyed China's opposition to the militarization of the strait or any tolls for its use. This discussion comes as negotiations to end the conflict and reopen the strait, which Iran has largely closed since late February, are stalled. Despite disruptions to global energy supplies, some vessels, including a Chinese tanker, have recently transited the strait under special agreements. The US has been enforcing a blockade on ships traveling to or from Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz.