Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz for normal passage of ships, describing it as an 'international waterway' amid assertions by Iran that it has an inalienable right over it.
The closure of the Strait has resulted in acute energy shortages across the world, especially in Asia, and China, a major importer of Iranian oil, is increasingly concerned about the prolongation of the US-Israel-Iran war.
Xi made the statement during a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, calling for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and supporting all efforts conducive to restoring peace.
China's Foreign Ministry has also expressed concern over the US Navy firing on a cargo ship travelling from China to an Iranian port, defying the American naval blockade.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is sensitive and complex, with Iran vowing retaliation and calling the US intercept of the cargo ship a 'piracy' act.
China hopes all parties will work together to prevent the situation in the Strait from deteriorating further and stands ready to continue making efforts alongside the international community to help de-escalate tensions.
