The US
Treasury launched 'Operation Economic Outcast' to cut off Iran's economic ties,
sanctioning dozens of entities including some in China and Hong Kong linked to
oil, shipping, and more.
Beijing's Foreign Ministry called its Iran trade lawful and promised 'all necessary measures' to defend its rights, amid its role as Iran's top oil buyer.
The clash underscores growing US-China tensions over Iran, with talks between Presidents Trump and Xi on the horizon.