China issued a stern warning to the United States on Monday after President Donald Trump ordered a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.

Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun stated that Chinese vessels are continuing to navigate the strait unhindered. "Our ships are moving in and out of the waters of the Strait of Hormuz. We have trade and energy agreements with Iran. We will respect and honour those agreements and expect others not to interfere in our affairs," Dong said. He added that Iran controls the strait and that it remains open for Chinese ships.

The U.S. military announced the blockade would begin at 10 a.m. ET, targeting all maritime traffic entering or exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas along the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The action followed the collapse of weekend peace talks in Islamabad between the United States and Iran. Trump had warned that any Iranian fast-attack boats approaching U.S. ships would be eliminated.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi echoed the caution, telling UAE special envoy Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak that the blockade "does not serve the common interests of the international community." Wang emphasized China's understanding of Gulf Arab states' security concerns but stressed that a comprehensive ceasefire through diplomacy is the only solution.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged all parties to abide by the temporary ceasefire arrangements and avoid resuming hostilities. "China hopes the relevant parties will... remain committed to resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means," Guo said at a press briefing. Beijing stands ready to play a constructive role in de-escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, carries about one-fifth of the world's oil and significant liquefied natural gas supplies. China relies on it for nearly 40% of its oil and 30% of its LNG imports, much from Iran. Before the current conflict, most Iranian oil exports went to China, the world's top crude importer.

Reports indicated at least two tankers, including one headed to China, turned back after the blockade took effect. China rejected U.S. claims of potential arms supplies to Iran as "groundless smears." Beijing maintains strict controls on arms exports in line with international obligations.

The escalation comes amid an ongoing U.S.-Iran war that has disrupted global energy markets. Trump last week threatened 50% tariffs on countries aiding Iran militarily. China and Pakistan had supported March peace efforts calling for an immediate ceasefire and restored navigation.