Iran and China Exploit Economic Choke Points to Counter US Pressure

Iran and China have responded to Trump’s aggressive use of economic and military power by weaponizing choke points.

Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz; China controls rare earth mineral supply chains.

BBC

After the US-Israeli campaign triggered closure of the Strait, Brent crude surged towards $140 per barrel.

China implemented a rare earth export license system, aiming to disrupt key industries.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz created a severe and prolonged supply shock.

Brent crude surged over $110 in March and climbed toward $140 in early April.

CBS News

The US granted a 30-day waiver for Iranian oil already in transit.

Trade data showed significant slowdowns across industries.

China began organizing overland imports of Iranian crude via rail connections.

“Home / World News / Rival nations seize choke points to counter Trump's global strategy Rival nations seize choke points to counter Trump's global strategy From Iran to China, President Trump's global aggression has encouraged other countries to search for new ways to pressure the US economy Advertisement”

Business Standard

Iran’s IRGC launched temporary air corridors between Tehran and Beijing.

Beijing blocked rare earth exports to US allies including Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.

The rare earth controls were framed as a defensive countermeasure.

China’s rare earth move hit the auto industry swiftly.

Toyota warned the shutdown would affect 96% of its hybrid output.

Lebanon Debate

The escalating use of chokepoints complicated US efforts to control the narrative.

Public opinion abroad increasingly opposed Trump’s Iran war.