Kathmandu – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on China to intervene and urge Iran not to proceed with its reported plan to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Rubio’s remarks came after Iran’s state-run Press TV reported that the Iranian parliament had approved a proposal to close the Strait, although the final decision still rests with the Supreme National Security Council.
Following recent U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, global oil prices have surged, amplifying concerns over a potential disruption in energy supplies.
In an interview with Fox News on Sunday, Rubio said, “I want the Chinese government to pick up the phone and talk to Iran about this, because China is heavily reliant on the Strait of Hormuz for its oil imports.”
He warned that any move by Iran to block the waterway would be economically disastrous for Tehran. “If Iran closes the Strait, it would be akin to economic suicide. While we have the means to respond, other countries—particularly those more economically dependent on this route—should also take this threat seriously.”
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital oil chokepoints, connecting the energy-rich Gulf countries to global markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. Any disruption in its operation could have widespread implications for global oil and gas supply chains.
