Trump and Xi Discuss Iran in Wide-Ranging Call as US Presses China to Break From Tehran

Leaders Address Iran and Broader Strategic Issues

President Trump said he and China’s Xi Jinping discussed the situation in Iran during a wide-ranging phone call, as Washington pushes China and other nations to isolate Tehran amid high tensions over its actions and nuclear ambitions. Both leaders also covered critical topics including trade, Taiwan, and Trump’s planned visit to Beijing in April, underscoring the complexity of U.S.-China relations. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Trump reiterated the importance of maintaining strong ties with China, describing the relationship with Xi as "extremely good" despite disagreements on issues such as military activity and regional security. The Chinese readout of the call highlighted summit planning but did not mention Trump’s April visit, reflecting subtle diplomatic differences. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Washington Pushes For Broader Isolation of Tehran

The call took place as the U.S. continues to press countries to distance themselves from Iran, citing concerns over Tehran’s internal crackdown on protests and its nuclear program. Trump’s administration has floated measures including tariffs on nations that continue robust trade with Iran, with China being a focal point of U.S. diplomatic pressure. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

China’s leadership reaffirmed its longstanding positions on key issues like Taiwan during the discussion, while also focusing on mutual interests such as bilateral trade and future diplomatic summits. The broader context of the call shows efforts to manage tensions across multiple geopolitical fronts. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Impact on Global Diplomacy

Analysts view the phone call as part of an ongoing effort by both powers to stabilize relations amid global challenges. The dialogue on Iran and other topics signals continued engagement between Washington and Beijing, even as strategic competition and divergent foreign policy goals remain significant factors. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}