Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz is sensitive and complex. "We express concern over the forced interception of relevant vessel by the US." Guo's remarks came after a media inquiry that US intercepted a cargo ship sailing toward Iran, which Iran vowed retaliation and called it a "piracy" act, and that Tehran said it will not participate in a second round of talks. 

"We hope relevant parties will act responsibly, abide by the ceasefire agreement, avoid provoking conflicts and exacerbating tensions, and create the necessary conditions for the resumption of normal navigation in the Strait," Guo said.

When asked to comment on the ceasefire which appears to be collapsing, Guo said that the regional situation is now at a critical juncture between war and peace. Now that the window of opportunity for peace has opened, favorable conditions should be created for ending the conflict at an early date, the spokesperson said.

China supports relevant parties in maintaining the momentum of ceasefire and negotiations. Guided by China's four-point proposal, we will continue to promote the de-escalation of the situation and play a constructive role in ultimately achieving enduring peace and stability in the Middle East, Guo added.

Global Times