During a summit on September 25, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in discussions about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, highlighting the region’s increasing tensions and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. This conversation coincided with Iran’s proposal of a seven-day plan aimed at reopening the crucial maritime passage and reducing hostilities in the area.
President Xi urged both the United States and Iran to revert to a framework established in June, which had previously resulted in a temporary ceasefire. This framework was intended to pave the way for wider negotiations to settle regional disputes. Iran expressed its approval of this approach while simultaneously advocating for its own seven-day peace plan.
The Iranian proposal, detailed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore normal maritime traffic within a week, contingent upon US acceptance. The plan also calls for an end to hostilities, the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, the release of frozen Iranian funds, and the removal of oil sanctions.
Although the United States has not publicly accepted Iran’s proposal, it has acknowledged that discussions through mediators remain constructive, particularly concerning nuclear issues. Nevertheless, Iran has maintained its stance on not making concessions regarding its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment.
President Trump cautioned Xi against providing any form of support to Iran, whether direct or indirect. US Ambassador to China David Perdue confirmed that China has assured Washington it is not assisting Iran in any capacity.
The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, further exacerbating tensions across the Gulf region, including in Yemen and Lebanon. In response to these escalating security concerns, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey have discussed enhancing military and intelligence cooperation.