China Criticizes US for Seizing Iranian Cargo Ship, Terms Action “Forced Interception” Against International Norms.

Beijing, April 2026: China has strongly condemned the United States’ recent seizure of an Iranian cargo ship, describing the move as a “forced interception” that violates international shipping laws and norms of free trade. In a press briefing on April 17, 2026, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Beijing “firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction” being applied on the high seas.

The statement comes days after the US Department of Justice confirmed that it had taken control of a vessel carrying Iranian crude oil, citing violations of American sanctions on Iran’s oil exports. The ship, reportedly named _Suez Rajan_, was intercepted in international waters and diverted to the US coast with its cargo.

China’s reaction adds a new diplomatic layer to the already tense US-Iran situation, especially as Strait of Hormuz security and global oil flows are under close watch in April 2.