US seeks China's cooperation on Iran sanctions despite tensions

The United States is escalating pressure on China to align with its Iran sanctions regime, marking a critical test of Beijing's willingness to comply with American economic penalties despite rising US-China tensions.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has directly urged Chinese officials to "get with the programme," signalling Washington's expectation that Beijing will enforce the broad sanctions framework targeting Iranian interests. The message reflects US determination to close off financial and commercial pathways that have allowed Iran to circumvent previous restrictions.

China's cooperation is considered essential to the effectiveness of the sanctions strategy, given Beijing's substantial trade relationships and financial ties across the Middle East and with Iran specifically. However, Chinese entities have already faced sanctions as part of the US campaign, complicating diplomatic efforts to secure voluntary compliance.

The push comes as the US attempts to tighten its maximum pressure campaign against Iran while managing broader strategic competition with China. Officials acknowledge that persuading Beijing to subordinate its economic interests to US foreign policy objectives remains a significant challenge, particularly given ongoing disputes between Washington and Beijing over trade, technology and regional influence.

The outcome will likely shape both the effectiveness of Iran sanctions and the trajectory of US-China relations in the coming months.