U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping said they agree that Iran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
The alignment between the world's two largest economies suggests a coordinated effort to maintain regional stability in the Middle East. Because the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, any disruption to shipping could trigger worldwide economic volatility.
The leaders reached this agreement on Thursday, May 14, 2026 [1]. In addition to the nuclear non-proliferation goal, both presidents said the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to ensure the continued flow of global commerce.
Both leaders said the agreement is intended to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and to keep the strategically vital waterway open for shipping [2, 3]. The cooperation marks a significant point of consensus on security issues despite other ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing.
While the specific mechanisms for enforcement were not detailed, the joint statement emphasizes a shared interest in preventing a nuclear arms race in the region. The focus on the Strait of Hormuz highlights the economic risks associated with Iranian maritime activity, and the necessity of international cooperation to protect trade routes [2, 4].
President Trump and President Xi said they share this view on the nuclear threat and the necessity of maritime access [1, 2].
“Iran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon”
This agreement signals a rare strategic convergence between the U.S. and China regarding Middle Eastern security. By prioritizing the openness of the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian nuclear non-proliferation, both nations are protecting their economic interests—specifically the stability of global oil markets—over their bilateral political frictions.
