U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Chinese President Xi Jinping had offered assistance regarding the Iran crisis and assured Washington that China would not send weapons linked to the ongoing regional conflict.
Trump made the remarks following high-level talks with Xi in Beijing, where the two leaders discussed a range of issues including the Middle East situation, Taiwan tensions, trade relations and global security concerns. The statement marks one of the strongest public indications so far of Beijing attempting to position itself as a stabilising force amid escalating tensions involving Iran and Western-backed allies.
According to Trump, Xi expressed willingness to help ease tensions in the Middle East while pledging that China would avoid supplying weapons connected to the ongoing conflict. The comments come as global powers intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent the Iran crisis from expanding into a wider regional confrontation.
China has maintained close economic and energy ties with Iran for years and remains one of Tehran’s largest oil buyers. However, Beijing has also attempted to strengthen its diplomatic role in the Gulf region, particularly after brokering the 2023 restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
The Trump-Xi discussions come amid growing international concerns over instability in the Strait of Hormuz, attacks on energy infrastructure and fears of disruptions to global oil supplies. Earlier on Thursday, the White House stated that both leaders agreed the Strait of Hormuz must remain open for international shipping due to its importance for global energy markets.
China has repeatedly called for de-escalation in the Middle East and warned against actions that could threaten global trade routes and economic stability. Beijing has also urged all sides to resolve disputes through dialogue while opposing unilateral military escalation.
Analysts say Xi’s reported assurance on weapons shipments could be aimed at reducing Western concerns over China’s strategic ties with Iran at a time when Beijing is already facing tensions with Washington over trade, Taiwan and advanced technology restrictions.
The meeting between Trump and Xi is being closely watched internationally as both countries attempt to manage growing geopolitical rivalry while cooperating on key global security and economic issues.