Original Source
US Imposes Hormuz Strait Blockade; China Calls it 'Dangerous and Irresponsible'
US Initiates Blockade of Strait of Hormuz
The United States has commenced a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for Iran. This action follows the breakdown of peace talks between American and Iranian negotiators in Pakistan. US Central Command reported that no Iranian ships passed through the strait during the first 24 hours of the blockade, and six merchant vessels complied with directions from US forces. The blockade is seen as a measure to pressure Iran by disrupting its sea trade, aiming to compel it to meet Washington's demands.
China and Russia Condemn US Blockade
Foreign ministers from Russia and China convened to discuss the Iran crisis. Both nations are allies of the Islamic Republic, and China has publicly condemned the US blockade. Guo Jiakun, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, stated, 'This will only aggravate confrontation, escalate tension, undermine the already fragile ceasefire, and further jeopardize safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. It is a dangerous and irresponsible move.'
Escalating Tensions and Uncertain Dialogue
President Donald Trump told the New York Post that talks with Iran could restart within the next two days, despite the recent failure of negotiations. The key sticking points that led to the breakdown of weekend talks include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the fate of Iran's nuclear program (which America demands be abandoned and its enriched uranium stockpile handed over), and the issue of Israeli attacks on Lebanon. With significant disagreements remaining between the United States and Iran, the prospects for a swift resumption and successful resolution of talks remain uncertain.
*Source: YouTube: BBC News (2026-04-14)*
