China Backs Reopening Hormuz Route for 20% of Global Energy as U.S. Expects Curbs on Iran Support
Updated
Updated · Reuters · May 15
China Backs Reopening Hormuz Route for 20% of Global Energy as U.S. Expects Curbs on Iran Support
9 articles · Updated · Reuters · May 15
Jamieson Greer said Chinese officials made clear at the U.S.-China summit that Beijing wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened with no curbs, tolls or military control.
That stance matters because Iran has largely shut the waterway to non-Iranian ships, triggering the biggest-ever disruption to global energy supplies; nearly a fifth of global oil and LNG normally passes through it.
Greer said Washington is confident China will act pragmatically to limit material support for Iran, as President Donald Trump seeks Beijing's help to lock in a fragile ceasefire and end the war.
China's foreign ministry called for de-escalation and shipping routes to reopen quickly, reinforcing Beijing's push for safe passage while still avoiding forceful criticism of U.S. conduct in the conflict.
With the Strait of Hormuz reopened but U.S. blockades ongoing, could global energy markets face another shock if tensions escalate again?
How might China’s dual role—calling for peace while quietly supporting Iran—reshape the balance of power in the Middle East?
What hidden risks do China's sanctions evasion and technology transfers pose for long-term regional stability and international security?
Strait of Hormuz Crisis 2026: Global Economic Shockwaves, Supply Chain Vulnerabilities, and the Geopolitical Struggle for Energy Security
Overview
As of May 15, 2026, the world faces escalating tensions due to the Iran conflict and the ongoing blockade of the critical Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump’s rejection of Iran’s latest proposal and his warning that the ceasefire is 'on life support' have heightened fears of renewed conflict in the Middle East. This situation has created a narrow and uneasy reprieve for energy markets and regional diplomacy. The closure of this vital maritime route is a major stress test for globalization, quickly disrupting economies and exposing how vulnerable global supply chains are to geopolitical instability.