Trump and Xi Agree on Ending Iran Nuclear Threat, Need to Open Strait of Hormuz

Why It Matters

A unified U.S.-China stance could pressure Iran and stabilize a chokepoint that supplies half of China’s crude, influencing global energy markets and regional security dynamics.

Key Takeaways

• Trump says Xi pledged not to sell weapons to Iran
• Both leaders demand the Strait of Hormuz remain open
• China imports ~50% of crude oil through Hormuz
• Recent attacks seized a ship and sank a cargo vessel
• U.S. hopes Beijing will mediate the Iran‑Middle East crisis

Pulse Analysis

The joint declaration from Trump and Xi marks a rare convergence of U.S. and Chinese foreign policy on a volatile Middle Eastern flashpoint. By publicly aligning on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the two leaders signal a willingness to coordinate diplomatic pressure, a move that could limit Tehran’s access to advanced weaponry and force it back to the negotiating table. This stance also underscores the strategic calculus of both capitals: preventing a nuclear-armed Iran reduces the risk of broader conflict that could disrupt global trade routes.

Energy considerations lie at the heart of the agreement. Approximately half of China’s crude oil imports transit the Strait of Hormuz, making the waterway a critical artery for the world’s second‑largest oil consumer. Any closure would spike oil prices and strain supply chains, directly impacting U.S. and Chinese economies. By advocating for an open strait, both nations aim to safeguard market stability, a priority that resonates with investors and policymakers monitoring commodity volatility.

Nevertheless, Beijing’s actual involvement remains uncertain. While the foreign ministry called for a ceasefire and swift reopening of the strait, internal analysts view the Iran crisis as outside China’s direct responsibility. The recent seizure of a vessel near the UAE and the sinking of a cargo ship near Oman illustrate the escalating risk environment. If China steps up diplomatic mediation, it could enhance its global standing; if it stays aloof, the U.S. may have to shoulder the burden of de‑escalation, potentially reshaping the balance of influence in the Middle East.

Original Description

'이란핵 불용•호르무즈 개방' 일치 中 역할할진 미지수

Staying in Beijing, Presidents Trump and Xi appear to have found common ground on Iran, signaling shared opposition to Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons and a mutual desire to bring the ongoing conflict to an end.

Cho Young-eun reports.

As the U.S.-China summit concluded on Friday, Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping appeared to find common ground on Iran, agreeing that Tehran must not obtain a nuclear weapon and that the Strait of Hormuz should be kept open amid escalating regional conflict.

President Trump said both leaders shared similar views on ending the conflict involving Iran, and preventing further instability in the Middle East.

"We did discuss Iran. We feel very similar on Iran. We want that to end. We don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon. We want the Straits open."

President Trump later told Fox News that Xi also stated China would not provide military equipment to Iran, a move Trump described as "a big statement."

Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington hoped Beijing would play a more active diplomatic role in resolving the crisis because it relies heavily on energy shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

China’s foreign ministry called again on Friday for a ceasefire and urged that the Strait of Hormuz be reopened "as soon as possible."

The issue is particularly significant for China, with nearly half of its crude oil imports passing through the strategic waterway.

Still, many in Beijing reportedly view the Iran crisis as outside China’s direct responsibility, raising questions over how far Xi is willing to cooperate with Washington on the issue.

Meanwhile, tensions around the strait continued to escalate as one ship anchored near the United Arab Emirates was seized and taken toward Iran on Thursday, while another cargo vessel near Oman sank following an attack.

Although no group immediately claimed responsibility, the incidents came as Iranian officials reiterated Tehran’s authority over the waterway and asserted its right to seize oil tankers linked to the United States.

Cho Young-eun, Arirang News.

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2026-05-15, 20:00 (KST)