US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged China to use its influence with Iran to prevent any move to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for global oil shipments.
His remarks followed reports from Iran’s state media suggesting that the country’s parliament had backed a plan to shut down the strait, pending approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.
Rubio emphasized the potential global impact of such a closure, warning it could trigger an economic crisis. “If they [Iran] go through with this, it would be economic suicide for them,” Rubio told Fox News. “China, which relies heavily on oil passing through the Strait, should act to stop it.”
The Strait of Hormuz handles about 20% of the world’s oil traffic, making it a vital artery for energy exports from the Middle East. Disruptions in the area would likely send fuel prices soaring and strain international supply chains.
Oil prices initially spiked following the recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Brent crude reached $81.40 a barrel early Monday before retreating to about $78—still a 1.4% increase for the day.
China, the leading importer of Iranian oil, maintains close ties with Tehran, placing it in a potentially pivotal role in de-escalating the crisis.
