China pushes back against US on Iran and Cuba in UN speech

During his speech at the UN General Assembly on Saturday, China's Vice President Han Zheng pushed back against the United States over Iran and Cuba, urging respect for the sovereignty of countries in the Gulf and calling for an end to the blockade on Cuba. The US has been imposing pressure on Cuba, which has largely cut off oil supplies to the island.

The US war on Iran began with US-Israeli strikes in February. Han emphasized the importance of major countries taking responsibility for international peace and security, highlighting China's stance on respecting the sovereignty and security of countries in the Middle East, including the Gulf. He also called on the relevant country (presumably the US) to immediately stop threatening Cuba and lift the blockade and sanctions against it.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed China's remarks, urging Washington to lift the 'siege' of Cuba and restrictions on trade with the Caribbean island. Han presented China as a reliable partner and defender of developing nations, emphasizing equality among countries and the importance of international consultation in handling world affairs.