What Happened
Beijing Defies Washington Over Iranian Oil Trade
China’s Commerce Ministry has blocked US sanctions imposed on five Chinese refineries accused of buying Iranian oil, citing violations of international law. The refineries, including Hengli Petrochemical and several ’teapot’ refineries, have faced difficulties due to the sanctions. The move is seen as a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between China and the US. This development was first reported by Reuters.