During a summit held on September 25, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, amidst Iran’s proposition of a seven-day plan to ease tensions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The conversation highlighted efforts to resume negotiations based on a framework that had previously achieved a temporary ceasefire.
Iran’s proposal, as outlined by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, aims to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz and reestablish normal maritime activities within a week, provided that the United States agrees to the terms. This plan also includes ending hostilities in the region, lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports, releasing frozen Iranian assets, and removing oil sanctions that have significantly impacted Iran’s economy.
While the US has not publicly embraced Iran’s proposal, it has acknowledged that discussions through intermediaries remain productive, especially regarding nuclear issues. Despite this, Iran has maintained its stance on continuing its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment, without concessions.
President Trump cautioned President Xi against offering any form of support to Iran, emphasizing the importance of China’s neutrality. US Ambassador to China, David Perdue, confirmed that China had assured the US it was not aiding Iran amid the escalating tensions.
The conflict has severely disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, exacerbating tensions across the Gulf, Yemen, and Lebanon. In response to the growing regional security concerns, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey are exploring closer military and intelligence cooperation.