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The Growing Tension Between Iran and the USA Pressures China to Act as Mediator, While Oil Tankers Already Avoid the Strait of Hormuz, a Crucial Route for Global Energy Trade.
After a series of U.S. bombings against Iranian facilities last weekend, the Iranian Parliament proposed the closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a strategic point through which about 20% of the oil exported in the world passes. In light of this threat, Chinese ships have begun to change their routes in the region, according to information from the specialized account OilBandit. China, Iran’s largest energy partner, is closely monitoring the escalation, while international pressures increase for the country to act as a mediator in the conflict.
The proposal to close the maritime passage is not yet official, but the impact is already being felt on oil routes. China, which absorbs up to 90% of Iranian oil exports, is concerned about the risk of interruptions in its energy supply.
Strait of Hormuz: A Vital Route for Global Oil
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage, with only nine kilometers wide at its most critical points. Still, it is responsible for the daily transport of about 20 million barrels of oil and 20% of global liquefied natural gas (LNG).
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In addition to China, countries like Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait also depend on the route to export their hydrocarbons. Any blockade would have immediate impacts on energy supply in Asia and around the world.
China Presses for Stability in Maritime Routes
In light of the situation, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the international community to “maintain stability in the critical routes of the Persian Gulf.” Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that Beijing is in dialogue with Iran and other involved countries, reinforcing that the security of the Gulf waters is a common interest.
At the same time, the United States is pressuring China to act as an intermediary. “They are heavily dependent on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil,” said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized Beijing’s strategic role in containing the crisis.
Chinese Ships Change Routes and Markets React
While diplomats discuss behind the scenes, movements at sea already reflect the climate of uncertainty. At least one Chinese oil tanker has turned back, and other vessels are redirecting their routes, delaying deliveries and adjusting logistical plans.
The markets also reacted last week, when the price of Brent crude surpassed 80 dollars, and the costs of insurance for navigation in the Persian Gulf were rising, according to Lloyd’s List. Even without an official blockade, the economic impacts are already real.
A Delicate Position for Beijing
Beijing signed a cooperation agreement worth US$ 400 billion with Iran in 2021, guaranteeing preferential access to oil and gas. However, this also puts China in a sensitive diplomatic situation: it needs to protect its interests without compromising relationships with other global actors.
If tensions escalate, China may resort to its strategic reserves of oil and gas. Additionally, it can redirect its energy demand to alternative routes — or even take control of distribution in Asia, should other countries temporarily lose access.
For now, the Strait of Hormuz remains open, but instability is increasing. China is still exercising caution, but the redirection of ships and the alert in the markets indicate that the risk is serious.
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