WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has suggested that he may postpone his highly anticipated visit to China at the end of the month. This potential delay comes as he seeks to increase pressure on Beijing to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz and stabilizing soaring oil prices amid escalating tensions related to the conflict in Iran.
In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Trump highlighted China’s significant dependence on oil imports from the Middle East, suggesting that this reliance means China should contribute to a new coalition aimed at ensuring the safe passage of oil tankers through the strait. The strait has been a focal point of concern following Iranian threats that have disrupted global oil flows. Trump stated, “We’d like to know” if Beijing will support this initiative before his trip, adding, “We may delay.”
The uncertainty surrounding the visit underscores how U.S.-Israeli actions against Iran have reshaped international relations in recent weeks. A delay in the in-person meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping could have significant economic ramifications. The relationship between Washington and Beijing has been strained, marked by mutual threats of steep tariffs over the past year, which could be exacerbated by a missed opportunity for diplomacy.
The White House has not yet responded to requests for further comment regarding the potential delay.
In Beijing, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson acknowledged ongoing communications between China and the U.S. concerning Trump’s planned visit. Lin Jian emphasized the importance of head-of-state diplomacy in guiding China-U.S. relations during a daily briefing.
Trump’s comments coincide with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s meeting with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Paris to discuss trade talks that aim to lay the groundwork for Trump’s upcoming trip to Beijing. Despite a truce that has temporarily halted tariff escalations between the two nations, the situation remains precarious.
At the onset of the Iran conflict, Trump had indicated that U.S. naval vessels would escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, downplaying the threats posed by Iran. However, as oil prices surged, the administration is evaluating various strategies, including appealing to other nations to contribute military support in the region. As of now, no country has formally responded to this request.
While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump mentioned discussions with “about seven” nations concerning potential military assistance but refrained from naming any specific countries. When asked about China’s involvement, he hinted at having extended an offer to Beijing.
“China’s an interesting case study,” Trump noted, referencing its dependency on Gulf oil. “So I said, ‘Would you like to come in’ and we’ll find out. Maybe they will, maybe they won’t.”
The ongoing conflict in Iran has significantly impacted oil prices, resulting in increased costs for American consumers at the gas pump. This situation comes as the midterm election season begins to intensify. Meanwhile, China faces its own economic challenges, having recently adjusted its growth target for 2026 to a modest 4.5% to 5%, marking its slowest anticipated growth since 1991. Continued disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could have long-lasting effects on China’s economy as well.
Lin, during the Beijing briefing, did not specifically address Trump’s call for military support in the Strait of Hormuz. He reiterated the impact of military actions on global trade and energy supplies, urging all parties involved to cease hostilities.
“China once again calls on all parties to stop military actions immediately, avoid further escalation of tensions, and prevent instability in the region from having a greater impact on global economic development,” he stated.
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Associated Press writer Ken Moritsugu in Beijing contributed to this report.
