China and Germany Welcome US–Iran Deal, Call for Swift Reopening of Strait of Hormuz

BEIJING / BERLIN, June 15: China has welcomed the agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their conflict, urging that the deal be signed as planned and calling for the swift restoration of safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that Beijing hopes the agreement will be implemented smoothly, adding that “safe and free passage through the Strait of Hormuz should be restored as soon as possible.”

The comments come amid growing international reaction to the US–Iran understanding, which is expected to be formally signed later this week and includes provisions linked to de-escalation and maritime security in the Gulf region.

Separately, Germany also welcomed developments surrounding the agreement, with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stating that Iran “must no longer pose a threat” and emphasizing the importance of ensuring unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with European counterparts in Luxembourg, Wadephul said the strategic waterway must be reopened fully.

“It must be made clear that the Strait of Hormuz is once again open to shipping, without any restrictions whatsoever and without any possibility of levying customs duties or similar charges,” he said.

He also suggested that European participation in Operation Aspides, the EU naval mission responding to Houthi threats against international shipping, could be further strengthened in light of regional developments.

The statements reflect increasing international focus on maritime security in the Gulf, as global powers respond to the emerging US–Iran diplomatic breakthrough.