China is in talks with Iran to allow ships carrying crude oil and liquefied natural gas to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing three diplomatic sources.
China maintains friendly relations with Iran and is largely so dependent on supplies from the Middle East, which is why they are putting pressure on Tehranto allow ships to pass safely, Reuters noted. The agency reminded that approximately 45 percent China's oil imports flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices increased by over 15%. since the beginning of the conflict due to production disruptions caused by Iranian attacks on energy facilities in the Persian Gulf and ships passing through the strait.
The number of tankers passing through Hormuz has dropped to four on Sunday, the day after the outbreak of hostilities, compared with an average of 24 a day since January, according to data from Vortexa, a company that monitors maritime traffic.
See also: The Strait of Hormuz in the spotlight. This is how China reacted
The Iranian government said earlier this week that none Ships belonging to the United States, Israel, European countries or their allies will not be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The statement did not mention China, Reuters wrote.
On Wednesday, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced that the US Navy would escort tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz “as soon as possible.”
See also: An attack on Iran may limit the US potential. It's about a possible conflict with China
