U.S. Urges China to Intervene as Iran Moves to Close Strait of Hormuz

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio Urges China to Intervene as Iran Moves to Close Strait of Hormuz After U.S. Strikes

WASHINGTON, June 22 (Reuters) — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday called on China to use its influence to prevent Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz, following U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Rubio, speaking on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures with Maria Bartiromo,” urged Beijing to intervene, highlighting China’s heavy reliance on the Strait for its oil imports. “I encourage the Chinese government in Beijing to call them about that, because they heavily depend on the Straits of Hormuz for their oil,” Rubio said. “If they do that, it will be another terrible mistake. It's economic suicide for them if they do it. And we retain options to deal with that, but other countries should be looking at that as well. It would hurt other countries' economies a lot worse than ours.”

The comments followed a report by Iran’s Press TV that the Iranian parliament had approved legislation to close the Strait, a critical chokepoint for roughly 20% of global oil and gas shipments. Rubio, who also serves as national security adviser, warned that such a move would mark a “massive escalation” requiring a response from the United States and other countries.

The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The developments come after U.S. officials announced that American forces had “obliterated” Iran’s main nuclear sites using a combination of 14 bunker-buster bombs, more than two dozen Tomahawk missiles, and over 125 military aircraft. The strikes represent a significant escalation in the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict.

Iranian authorities have vowed to defend their nation, while Rubio cautioned Tehran against any retaliatory action, stating such a move would be “the worst mistake they've ever made.” Despite the rising tensions, Rubio said the United States remains prepared for diplomatic talks with Iran.

This story is developing. More updates to follow.