China Criticizes US Sanctions on Iran Amid Escalating Economic Tensions

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian criticized US sanctions on Iran, as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans for the toughest sanctions in history to be detailed on Monday.

Iranian oil exports have declined since mid-July, with ship-tracking data from Kpler showing no supertanker crossings of the Strait of Hormuz as the US blockade impacts Tehran's shipments.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf stated on August 21, 2026, that Iran must plan to overcome these sanctions, which follow President Donald Trump's threat of economic warfare.