Trump needs China’s help to pressure Iran, but Beijing won’t play along

The success of new US sanctions against Iran depends on China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, but Beijing has rejected Washington's pressure and vowed to protect its economic interests. China's Foreign Ministry said Tuesday it would take "all necessary measures" against US sanctions threats, with spokesperson Lin Jian criticizing "economic warfare" as counterproductive. Washington has previously warned two unnamed Chinese banks about Iran-linked transactions, while China imports Iranian oil through a shadowy system insulated from the US dollar. Analysts note China could quietly reduce oil purchases ahead of Xi Jinping's US visit next month, but Beijing refuses to be seen as doing Trump a favor. China has urged restraint and normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz, though it avoids direct mediation, preferring to project stability while protecting its trade ties.