US and China Consider Cooperation Amid Energy Crisis

Chinese outlets stress that both the United States and China depend on Gulf energy and therefore have a common interest in keeping Hormuz open. They argue that the current crisis, and the risk that a Hormuz-style blockade could appear near Taiwan, should push Washington and Beijing to sit down and work together on energy security and conflict management. Commentators in this block expect mid-April energy pressures and war fatigue to push the United States and Iran toward talks, with China seeking a role as a key mediator.

• •Chinese commentators describe the Strait of Hormuz shutdown as a direct threat to both US and Chinese energy supplies.
• •Beijing-linked voices argue that shared dependence on Gulf oil should drive the United States and China to coordinate on keeping shipping lanes open.
• •Chinese analysis points to mid-April as a likely moment when the United States and Iran will feel enough pressure to enter negotiations.
• •Articles in Chinese outlets warn that the Hormuz crisis is being studied as a model for a possible blockade around Taiwan.
• •Chinese commentary promotes closer China-India cooperation on energy security as another way to manage shared risks from Gulf disruptions.