China rejects US sanctions threat over Iran ties, calls cooperation legal

China's foreign ministry has responded to US President Donald Trump's suggestion that Chinese companies could face sanctions over their ties with Tehran.

According to Russia's Sputnik news agency, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said today that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solutions to the crisis with Iran. He stressed that China opposes unlawful unilateral sanctions, describing this position as "firm and clear."

Earlier this week, the Chinese foreign ministry reiterated that cooperation between China and Iran always takes place within the framework of international law, commenting on the latest round of major US sanctions against Iran.

Speaking at a press conference, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated, "Cooperation between China and Iran is conducted in accordance with international law and should not be interfered with or disrupted." He added that China is closely monitoring developments and will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its rights and interests.

Previously, US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant announced the launch of "Operation Economic Pariah" to impose sweeping sanctions on Iran and "any country that supports it."

Meanwhile, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said today that the new US economic measures against Tehran amount to state terrorism and are illegal and reprehensible.

Baqaei added that "Iran urges countries to refrain from implementing US sanctions," noting that "participating in US sanctions is tantamount to colluding in imposing one country's unlawful will on others."