Xi says China backs US and Iran returning to Islamabad MOU
The remark comes during Xi's state visit to Washington, where talks have also covered trade, security and technology.
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Map: The Gulf and Hormuz, marking Strait of Hormuz
Chinese President Xi Jinping said China supports the United States and Iran in returning to the Islamabad MOU, according to Xinhua. Xi said he hopes the two countries can reach agreement on the nuclear issue.
Washington and Tehran are discussing a phased deal that would lift the US blockade and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to people familiar with the talks. Xi's comments came during his state visit to Washington, where discussions have also covered trade, security and technology.
The diplomatic signal lands against a tense backdrop. An Israeli source has said Israel will strike Iranian nuclear sites again if Tehran crosses red lines.
Xi's endorsement suggests China now views de-escalation between Washington and Tehran as aligned with its own interests, a shift from treating Iran as a geopolitical counterweight to the US. Set against Israeli threats and oil prices rising on regional tension, the backing could ease pressure on energy markets, but only if the US and Iran actually move toward a deal.