China urges Pakistan to intensify mediation between Iran and US over Strait of Hormuz

China's top diplomat urged Pakistan on May 12-13 to deepen mediation efforts between Iran and the United States amid Middle East tensions. The call emphasized maintaining a durable ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz for normal passage.

The issue will feature prominently in upcoming Trump-Xi talks, highlighting China's role in regional de-escalation with global trade implications.

  • Pakistan has historically mediated between Iran and Saudi Arabia, notably brokering a 2023 China-facilitated détente.
  • The Strait of Hormuz spans just 21 miles at its narrowest, amplifying risks from naval blockades.

US-Iran Ceasefire War

The United States launched military strikes against Iran on June 26, 2026, in response to a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "foolish violation" of the 60-day ceasefire agreement signed just days earlier[2][4][14].

US-Iran Ceasefire War— full background & timeline
China urges Pakistan to intensify mediation between Iran and US over Strait of Hormuz | Implica