{
  "id": 3230490,
  "title": "China says will ‘safeguard own interests’ after US vows Iran sanctions",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/china-says-will-safeguard-own-interests-after-us-vows-iran-sanctions-3230490",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-25T08:17:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2026/08/25/china-says-will-safeguard-own-interests-after-us-vows-iran-sanctions"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On Tuesday, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the global press, expressing the nation's intent to protect its own interests following the United States' announcement of economic sanctions against Iran. The US, embroiled in a six-month conflict with Iran, recently outlined plans to economically isolate the country, extending penalties to include several Chinese entities. The US further urged international governments to join in this economic campaign against Iran.\n\nChina has consistently advocated for a ceasefire, asserting that US sanctions would not resolve the ongoing conflict. Lin Jian maintained that China's cooperation with Iran had always adhered to international law and should not be subjected to interference or disruption. He reiterated China's strong opposition to unilateral, illegal sanctions, and emphasized that Beijing would take all necessary measures to protect its rights and interests.\n\nBeijing serves as a crucial market for Iranian oil and is directly impacted by the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has a history of enduring sanctions for extended periods, employing intricate international financial networks to circumvent restrictions. Prior to the conflict, Iran maintained its practice of exporting millions of barrels of oil, predominantly to China.\n\nDuring a press conference on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was questioned about whether Chinese banks would be targeted by the new sanctions. He unequivocally stated, \"No one is above the reach of US sanctions.\"",
  "summary": "A foreign ministry spokesman said China's cooperation with Iran complies with international law and should not be disrupted or interfered with.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}