By The South Asia Times

BEIJING - China has sharply criticized recent US military actions targeting Iran, warning that escalating measures risk undermining a fragile ceasefire and deepening regional instability and calling the US measures "irresponsible." 

Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Beijing was “deeply concerned” over reports that the United States Central Command had imposed a naval blockade on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas, effective late on April 13.

The development follows heightened tensions in the region, with Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warning that Iran would not yield to threats, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly cautioned foreign military vessels against approaching the Strait of Hormuz.

Monitoring data cited by media indicated that commercial shipping through the vital energy corridor had halted by the evening of April 13.

Guo said the US move, coming despite an existing temporary ceasefire between Washington and Tehran, would “only exacerbate tensions, undermine the already fragile ceasefire, and further impact navigation safety.” He described the reported blockade as “dangerous and irresponsible.”

China urged all parties to adhere to ceasefire commitments and prioritize dialogue. “Only a comprehensive ceasefire can fundamentally create conditions for easing tensions,” Guo said, calling for concrete steps to restore stability and normal maritime operations.

Responding to remarks by US Vice President JD Vance, who said Iran must take the next step to revive negotiations, China stressed that preventing renewed conflict should be the immediate priority.

“The current ceasefire is extremely fragile, and the regional situation is at a critical juncture,” Guo said, adding that disputes must be resolved through political and diplomatic means.

China also reiterated its willingness to work with the international community to advance peace efforts and stabilize the Middle East.

Separately, Beijing voiced concern over reports that the United States is planning to build a new military fuel depot in the Philippines’ Davao region, a move analysts say could bolster Washington’s operational capabilities in the Western Pacific.

Guo warned that expanding military infrastructure and logistics networks risks heightening confrontation in the Asia-Pacific. “The establishment of military bases and preparations for war by certain countries are escalating the risk of military confrontation,” he said, adding that such actions have already raised alarm among regional nations.

He cautioned countries in the region against seeking external military backing, saying it could “invite trouble and suffer the consequences,” and urged respect for regional aspirations for peace, development, and stability.

Addressing separate allegations that China is providing military support to Iran, Guo dismissed the claims as “pure fabrication.” He said China maintains strict controls on military exports in line with its laws and international obligations.

Guo also warned that Beijing would respond if the United States, under Donald Trump, imposes additional tariffs over such allegations. “If the US insists on using this as a pretext… China will resolutely retaliate,” he said.

The remarks come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions spanning the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific, with analysts warning that overlapping crises could further strain global security and trade routes.