China expands diplomatic mediation between US and Iran

China is increasing its role as a diplomatic mediator between the United States and Iran amid escalating conflict. Beijing has been coordinating with Pakistan, which serves as the public face of mediation efforts, to explore paths toward restarting stalled talks between Washington and Tehran.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for restraint from both sides and emphasized the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to protect global energy supply chains. China’s involvement is driven by significant economic interests, as it is Iran’s largest oil buyer, with Chinese entities reportedly accounting for over 80 percent of Iran’s oil exports in 2025.

In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit the United States from September 23 to 25 to meet with President Donald Trump. This meeting occurs as Trump weighs a major decision regarding whether to resume large-scale military attacks on the Iranian regime. Trump has indicated he intends to consult with regional allies in the Middle East before determining the next phase of the conflict.