China pushes back against US on Iran and Cuba in UN speech

China pushed back at the United States during a speech at the UN General Assembly on Saturday, arguing that countries’ sovereignty—especially in the Gulf—should be respected. Speaking as vice president, Han Zheng did not name Washington, but urged the “relevant country” to stop threatening Cuba and to immediately and completely lift its blockade and sanctions on the island. The remarks came as the US pressure campaign has largely blocked oil from reaching Cuba. Han also referenced Iran, noting the US war on Iran began with US-Israeli strikes in February. The UN comments contrasted with earlier US-China diplomacy at the White House.