During a summit on September 25, U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the ongoing Middle East conflict, focusing on tensions involving Iran and the critical Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Iran proposed a seven-day plan aimed at easing regional hostilities and resuming normal maritime traffic through the strait.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi detailed the plan, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ending hostilities, lifting the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports, releasing frozen Iranian funds, and removing oil sanctions. While the United States has not publicly accepted this proposal, discussions through mediators have been described as constructive, particularly regarding nuclear issues. However, Iran remains firm in its stance on its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, indicating no concessions will be made.
President Xi urged both the United States and Iran to return to a June framework that had previously led to a temporary ceasefire, advocating for renewed negotiations toward a broader settlement. Iran has expressed support for this proposal in conjunction with its own seven-day peace plan.
During the summit, President Trump cautioned President Xi against providing support to Iran. U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue confirmed that China assured the United States it is not assisting Iran in any capacity.
The conflict has significantly impacted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, heightening tensions across the Gulf region, as well as in Yemen and Lebanon. In response to these widening regional security concerns, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey are reportedly considering closer military and intelligence collaboration.