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Trump Signals Chinese Support for Iran Talks as Hormuz Shipping Stalls

President Donald Trump indicated Monday that China has expressed willingness to support diplomatic negotiations with Iran aimed at ending regional conflict and restoring shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came as a commercial vessel was reportedly seized near the United Arab Emirates, marking the latest incident disrupting one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. Trump unveiled a federal initiative to escort vessels through the contested waters, though shipping executives expressed uncertainty about the plan's viability. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth underscored the U.S. commitment to maintaining control of the strategic passage. Traffic through the Hormuz remains substantially reduced, with ongoing attacks continuing to deter vessel transits. The administration's diplomatic overture to Iran represents one approach to addressing the blockade. Its military escort proposal offers a complementary strategy to restore shipping and protect global energy and goods shipments.