President Trump stated China is “very happy” he has permanently opened the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Tehran has agreed not to send weapons to Iran. The declaration came in a Truth Social post, where Trump emphasized the move benefits both China and global trade, claiming it would “never happen again.” He added that Chinese President Xi Jinping wrote him a “beautiful letter” responding to his request for Iran to halt arms transfers, stating China has stopped such shipments.

The planned May 14-15 meeting between Trump and Xi in Beijing was delayed due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Analysts note China relies on roughly 45–50% of its crude oil imports through the Strait of Hormuz, with over a fifth of global seaborne oil passing through annually. U.S. intelligence reports indicate China has been preparing shoulder-fired anti-air missile systems for Iran to counter potential American strikes.

The White House confirmed the blockade is “fully in effect and working,” citing that no ships have traversed Iranian ports since implementation. A senior administration official stated the President’s goal is facilitating free energy flow while allowing countries to purchase U.S. oil. The U.S. military recently turned around six merchant vessels and completely halted trade from Iranian ports, according to officials.