The United States and Israel have reached an understanding to work towards reducing Iran’s oil exports to China, according to reports citing U.S. Officials. The agreement, reached during a meeting at the White House, signals a commitment to applying maximum pressure on Iran.
“We agreed to apply pressure to Iran, for example, regarding the sale of Iranian oil to China,” one senior U.S. Official told Axios on Saturday, as reported by Reuters on Monday, February 16, 2025.
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China’s Foreign Ministry responded to the reports on Sunday, stating that normal international trade conducted within the framework of international law is legitimate and should be respected and protected.
China is a major importer of Iranian oil, absorbing more than 80% of its exports. A reduction in this trade could significantly impact Iran’s oil revenue.
The agreement comes as U.S. And Iranian diplomats recently engaged in talks, mediated by Oman, regarding Iran’s nuclear program in an attempt to revive diplomatic channels. This diplomatic effort is unfolding against a backdrop of increased U.S. Military presence in the region, with the U.S. Military preparing for potential operations against Iran that could last for weeks.
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