Germany urges China to press Iran for talks to end war

Germany on Thursday urged China to use its influence to persuade Iran to enter talks with the United States to end the war and restore free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul made the appeal following a phone call with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, saying Berlin and Beijing share deep concerns over the escalating Middle East crisis.

"China can use its influence on Iran constructively for a negotiated solution and a cessation of hostilities against the Gulf states," Wadephul said in a statement posted on social media.

He emphasized that close German-Chinese dialogue remains essential amid the challenging global environment, adding that both countries are committed to swiftly ending the conflict and safeguarding the freedom and security of international shipping.

"Germany and China both want to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz," Wadephul said. "We agree that individual countries must not control shipping lanes or impose tolls for passage."