US claims China is distancing from Iran after Trump Beijing visit

The United States has claimed at the United Nations that China has begun to distance itself from Iran following US President Donald Trump’s recent visit to Beijing, signalling a possible shift in regional diplomatic alignments.

US envoy Michael Waltz, speaking during a UN session, alleged that China has agreed that Iran should not pursue nuclear weapons and that no tolls should be imposed on strategic maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. He further suggested that Beijing’s position on Iran appears to be evolving after high-level talks with Washington.

Waltz argued that China’s policy shift reflects the influence of recent diplomatic engagement between Washington and Beijing, particularly Trump’s visit to China, which he described as having reshaped several geopolitical calculations in the region.

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However, China’s representative at the United Nations did not directly confirm or endorse the US claims. Instead, the Chinese envoy criticised the timing and content of the draft resolution discussed at the Security Council, saying it was not conducive to easing tensions.

The Chinese diplomat emphasised that all parties should pursue serious and good-faith negotiations to reduce regional instability. He warned that introducing new resolutions or punitive measures at this stage could further complicate an already fragile situation.

China reiterated that dialogue and diplomatic engagement remain the only viable path forward and urged restraint among all involved parties to prevent escalation in the Middle East.

Analysts say the exchange highlights growing diplomatic friction among the United States, China, and Iran, with competing narratives over influence, energy security, and regional stability. They note that shifting alliances and public statements at international forums reflect broader uncertainty in global geopolitics.

The developments come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and ongoing debates over Iran’s nuclear programme and control of key maritime trade routes, which remain central to global energy security.