China vows to protect interests after US expands Iran sanctions

China has vowed to protect its interests after the US announced plans to widen economic sanctions against Iran and its trading partners, which include Beijing. Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said China was firmly opposed to what it called "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights. This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the new measures on Monday, warning any nation financially partnering with Iran would be isolated. China is the biggest buyer of Iranian oil, although the trade has declined under the US blockade of Iran's ports. Lin said cooperation between China and Iran should not be interfered with. The announcement comes ahead of planned talks between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month. Washington is likely to be wary of potential retaliation from Beijing, which processes the majority of the world's rare earths and other critical minerals. Analysts have cast doubt on the measures' direct impact on Iranian energy flows.