Trump Threatens 50% Tariff on China Over Military Aid to Iran

Former US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to China, threatening to impose a massive 50% tariff on the country if it is caught supplying military equipment to Iran. He made the statement during an interview with Fox News.

"If we catch them doing that, they're going to get a 50% tariff, which is a staggering amount," Trump said in response to a question about potential US actions against nations providing military assistance to Iran.

The threat comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and follows recent diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran. Negotiations between the two countries took place on April 11 in Islamabad but concluded without an agreement after 21 hours of talks.

US Vice President JD Vance, who led the American delegation, stated that Washington had presented Tehran with its "final and best offer." He noted that Iran refused to accept what he described as "sufficiently flexible" terms for a deal.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed Beijing's hope for a swift restoration of stability in the region. "We hope relevant parties can seize the opportunity for peaceful settlement, resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, and contribute to the early restoration of peace and stability in the Persian Gulf and the Middle East," she said earlier.