Chinese and Iranian Foreign Ministers Hold Phone Call on Israel's Military Actions and the Strait of Hormuz

(CNA, Taipei, June 18) On the eve of a potential peace agreement between the United States and Iran, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call on the evening of the 17th with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Araghchi stated that the memorandum of understanding reached between the U.S. and Iran should be fully implemented, including Israel’s cessation of military actions against Lebanon. Wang Yi responded that navigation issues in the Strait of Hormuz must be properly addressed to respond to international concerns.

According to Xinhua News Agency, Araghchi briefed Wang Yi on the details of the first-phase memorandum of understanding reached between Iran and the United States, emphasizing that the agreement must be strictly implemented, including Israel halting its military operations in Lebanon.

Wang Yi told Araghchi that China welcomes the first-phase memorandum between the U.S. and Iran, noting that a glimmer of peace has emerged. The key moving forward, he said, lies in all parties translating their commitments into concrete actions and overcoming interference from various sources. He also stressed that navigation in the Strait of Hormuz should be properly managed to address widespread international concerns.

Iran, long subjected to international sanctions, has maintained strong relations with China, with bilateral ties growing increasingly close in recent years. During the U.S.-Iran conflict, U.S. forces intercepted vessels linked to the Iranian government suspected of transporting military supplies from China to Iran, drawing attention to China’s role in the conflict. At the same time, several Chinese cargo ships have been affected by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to reports that Beijing has pressured Tehran to reopen the strait. (Editors: Chiu Kuo-chiang / Tang Pei-chun) 1150618