China has warned that it will take measures to protect its national interests after the United States expanded sanctions targeting Iran and entities involved in trade with Tehran.
China's Foreign Ministry said Beijing firmly opposes unilateral US sanctions and that cooperation between China and Iran should not be disrupted.
The United States has imposed new sanctions on dozens of individuals, companies and vessels accused of helping Iran generate oil revenue and obtain sensitive technology. Washington has also threatened secondary sanctions against countries and businesses that continue trading with Iran.
China is particularly important because it is Iran's largest customer for oil. Beijing therefore has significant economic interests at stake and has rejected US attempts to restrict its trade with Tehran.
The dispute could further increase tensions between Washington and Beijing, especially if the US eventually targets major Chinese banks or companies involved in Iranian oil trade. China has warned that it could respond if its businesses and interests are seriously affected.
Beijing has also continued to call for a ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations, arguing that sanctions alone will not resolve the conflict between the United States and Iran.