Trump said China can continue buying Iranian oil after the Israel-Iran ceasefire, but urged Beijing to purchase more U.S. oil instead. He posted this on Truth Social just days after ordering airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites.
A White House official explained that Trump’s message aimed to keep pressure on Iran while pushing U.S. oil sales to the top global importer, China.
🚨 TRUMP: “China can now continue to purchase Oil from Iran. Hopefully, they will be purchasing plenty from the U.S. also.” pic.twitter.com/06wp6Ffipk
— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) June 24, 2025
Trump Pushes U.S. Oil Over Iran’s
Trump’s comments followed Iran’s continued choice not to close the Strait of Hormuz, which could’ve disrupted global oil flows. The White House said the president wants China and others to choose U.S. oil over Iranian barrels. The statement quickly sent oil prices down by 6%, signalling that markets viewed this as a potential softening of U.S. sanctions.
Trump’s position contrasts with his earlier stance in February, when he reimposed maximum pressure to cut Iran’s oil exports to zero. His administration had sanctioned several Chinese refiners and terminals for importing Iranian oil. Some analysts now say Trump’s new position shows softer enforcement.
Scott Modell, ex-CIA officer and CEO of Rapidan Energy Group, said Trump’s message reflects a “return to lax enforcement.” But even if Trump doesn’t enforce sanctions, he may not lift them yet. Former and current officials note any suspension would require U.S. Treasury licenses, State Department waivers, and notifications to Congress.
Pressure On China
Trump’s move puts China in a tricky spot. While Iranian oil now makes up nearly 14% of China’s oil supply, thanks to steep discounts, U.S. oil only makes up 2%, partly due to China’s 10% import tariffs. Trump’s push aims to flip that balance. Analysts in Asia say this won’t immediately change buying behaviour, but it could affect future deals.
China has long objected to U.S. sanctions, calling them illegal. Larger Iranian oil imports could upset Saudi Arabia, Washington’s ally and the world’s largest oil supplier. The State Department said Trump has made his goals clear, and now the government will work to achieve them.
