Beijing (HRNW)- China has opposed potential US sanctions targeting Iranian airlines, describing unilateral sanctions without a basis in international law or authorization from the UN Security Council as “illegal.”
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun made the remarks on Tuesday, a day after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Washington could impose measures that would effectively shut down Iranian airlines operating internationally.
Bessent said foreign companies providing Iranian aircraft with services such as fuel, landing facilities, or ticket sales could face consequences under the US financial system. The United States has already imposed sanctions on remaining Iranian airlines and related entities as part of its pressure campaign against Tehran.
Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing’s opposition to unilateral sanctions that are not grounded in international law or approved by the UN Security Council. China has maintained a broader policy of opposing unilateral sanctions imposed outside the UN framework.
The dispute comes amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran, including intensified US economic measures against Iran’s aviation sector.
The latest Chinese statement also comes ahead of President Xi Jinping’s scheduled visit to the United States from September 23 to 25, where he is expected to meet US President Donald Trump and discuss bilateral and international issues.
The contrasting positions highlight differences between Washington and Beijing over sanctions policy toward Iran, with China emphasizing international legal and UN mechanisms while the United States continues to expand unilateral economic pressure on Tehran.
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