China Rejects U.S. 'Economic D-Day' Characterization of Sanctions

Why it matters locally: The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a prominent think tank based in Washington, D.C., was the source of the 'economic D-Day' characterization, making this national diplomatic exchange particularly relevant to the city's policy and research community.

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Beijing, China — China's Foreign Ministry publicly rejected a U.S. official's characterization of economic sanctions targeting Iran. A spokesperson for the ministry stated on Tuesday that China opposes the use of unilateral sanctions. Mark Dubowitz, chief executive of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington-based think tank, had described the economic pressure on Iran as 'economic D-Day.' Mr. Dubowitz made the comment during an interview with Fox News. China has maintained significant trade relationships with Iran, particularly in the energy sector. Chinese companies have historically purchased Iranian oil despite international sanctions. The Chinese government has consistently advocated for diplomatic solutions in matters concerning Iran.