During a summit on September 25, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in discussions centered on the ongoing Middle East conflict, amid rising tensions in the region. The talks occurred as Iran proposed a seven-day peace plan aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and curbing hostilities.
President Xi urged both the United States and Iran to revert to a previous framework established in June that had temporarily ceased hostilities and to renew negotiations for a broader settlement. Iran expressed openness to this suggestion while simultaneously advocating for its own seven-day plan.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi outlined the plan, which seeks a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and resumption of normal maritime traffic within a week, contingent upon US acceptance. The plan also demands the cessation of hostilities, lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, release of frozen Iranian funds, and removal of oil sanctions.
The US has not publicly accepted Iran’s proposal but indicated that discussions through mediators remain constructive, especially concerning nuclear issues. Despite this, Iran has maintained its stance on not conceding on its nuclear program, including uranium enrichment.
In the discussions, President Trump cautioned President Xi against providing either direct or indirect support to Iran. US Ambassador to China David Perdue later confirmed that China assured Washington it was not assisting Iran.
The conflict has significantly disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions across the Gulf, Yemen, and Lebanon. In response to the growing security concerns, countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey have been exploring closer military and intelligence coordination.