China rejects U.S. call to join economic isolation of Iran

China rejected a U.S. request to join efforts to economically isolate Iran, as Washington launched a new campaign to cut off Tehran's financial and trade channels. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said sanctions and pressure would not help resolve the problem, and called for responsible action through diplomatic and political channels. The stance came after President Donald Trump announced what he called the most devastating economic operation against Iran. Trump warned that countries, financial institutions, companies, airports and government entities that provide assistance to Iran would face major economic consequences. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also said Washington was asking allies, including China, to take similar steps. China is one of the largest importers of Iranian oil.