China Blames “Illegal Military Operation” in Iran for Strait of Hormuz Crisis, Warns Donald Trump Must Be Held Responsible

China has sharply criticized the United States over rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, blaming what it described as an “illegal military operation” in Iran for the unfolding crisis and calling on Trump to take responsibility for his actions.

In a strongly worded statement, officials in Beijing said the root cause of the instability threatening one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes lies in recent U.S. military activity targeting Iran. The Xi Jinping administration warned that such actions risk escalating an already fragile situation in the Middle East and could have far-reaching consequences for global trade and energy security.

“The current tensions in the Strait of Hormuz did not emerge in isolation,” a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said. “They are the direct result of reckless and unlawful military operations that violate international norms and undermine regional stability.”

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but strategically vital passage through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply flows, has once again become a flashpoint amid heightened hostilities between Washington and Tehran. Any disruption in the waterway could send shockwaves through global energy markets, driving up oil prices and increasing economic uncertainty worldwide.

China, one of the largest importers of crude oil, has expressed deep concern over the potential for supply disruptions. Beijing has consistently called for restraint and dialogue, urging all parties involved to de-escalate tensions and return to diplomatic solutions.

In its remarks, China directly pointed to Trump, stating that U.S. leadership must be held accountable for decisions that could destabilize not only the Middle East but the global economy. “Major powers must act responsibly,” the statement added, emphasizing that unilateral military actions only heighten the risk of conflict.

The criticism underscores growing friction between China and the United States over foreign policy and security issues. While Washington has defended its actions as necessary for national security and regional deterrence, Beijing has framed them as provocative moves that threaten international peace.

Analysts say China’s unusually direct tone signals both its concern over economic fallout and its broader opposition to U.S. military interventions abroad. With tensions continuing to simmer, the international community is watching closely, wary that any further escalation could push the region closer to a wider conflict.

As diplomatic efforts struggle to gain traction, the Strait of Hormuz remains on edge—its stability now tied not only to regional rivalries but also to the growing divide between the world’s major powers.