diplomacyFriday, May 15, 20263 sources

Trump Announces Possible Lifting of Sanctions on Chinese Companies Buying Iranian Oil

Former President Donald Trump stated during a call with Chinese leader Xi Jinping that the U.S. may lift sanctions on Chinese firms purchasing Iranian oil. The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions over Iran's nuclear program and economic sanctions. The move could impact U.S.-China relations and Iran's oil exports.

During a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 15, 2026, Trump indicated that the U.S. might remove sanctions targeting Chinese companies that import Iranian oil. The sanctions, part of broader U.S. efforts to pressure Iran over its nuclear activities, have been a point of contention in U.S.-China trade relations. The potential easing of sanctions could allow more Iranian oil to flow through Chinese markets, affecting global oil prices and diplomatic dynamics.

Timelines

Sources

IndependentBloombergMay 15, 05:34 PM
Trump Says He May Remove Some Iran-Linked Sanctions on China - Bloomberg.com

Trump Says He May Remove Some Iran-Linked Sanctions on China  Bloomberg.com

IndependentStraits TimesMay 15, 04:58 PM
Trump says he spoke with China’s Xi about lifting sanctions on Chinese companies that buy Iranian oil - The Straits Times

Trump says he spoke with China’s Xi about lifting sanctions on Chinese companies that buy Iranian oil  The Straits Times

IndependentMiddle East EyeMay 15, 03:29 PM
Trump says US may lift sanctions on Chinese companies that buy Iranian oil - Middle East Eye

Trump says US may lift sanctions on Chinese companies that buy Iranian oil  Middle East Eye