Explosive Call: Trump Corners China on Iran

President Trump’s “long and thorough” phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping showcased diplomatic momentum on critical issues—but China’s firm stance on Taiwan and its massive trade relationship with Iran reveal the deep challenges ahead in confronting globalist trade partners who enable rogue regimes.

Story Highlights

Trump and Xi discussed Iran isolation, Taiwan tensions, Ukraine conflict, and major trade increases including soybeans, oil, and gas on February 4, 2026
China committed to boosting soybean purchases from 20 million to 25 million tons while Trump pushes 25% tariffs on nations trading with Iran—putting pressure on China’s $32 billion annual trade with Tehran
Beijing reaffirmed it will “never allow Taiwan to be split” despite Trump’s $10 billion arms sale approval in December 2025
The call coincided with the New START nuclear treaty expiration, as Trump seeks a new agreement including China to prevent an uncapped arms race

Trump Leverages Trade to Isolate Iran

President Trump announced Wednesday’s call with Xi Jinping covered extensive ground on Iran, positioning the conversation as part of broader efforts to economically isolate Tehran. The administration has proposed a 25% import tax on countries maintaining trade with Iran, directly targeting China’s $32 billion annual commerce with the regime. This approach reflects constitutional principles of using American economic strength to advance national security without immediate military escalation. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is conducting Iran talks this week, following June’s 12-day conflict where U.S. forces bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. The strategy demonstrates Trump’s preference for leverage over endless foreign entanglements that drain American resources.

Soybean Surge and Energy Exports Signal Economic Wins

Trump highlighted significant trade progress, with China committing to increase soybean purchases from 20 million tons this season to 25 million tons next year. The call also addressed oil and gas exports, airplane engine deliveries, and broader commercial cooperation—tangible benefits for American farmers and energy producers suffering under previous administrations’ weak negotiating positions. These agreements represent the kind of reciprocal trade deals that strengthen American industries rather than shipping jobs overseas. Trump described the personal relationship with Xi as “extremely good,” framing expected outcomes as positive for both nations. This dealmaking approach contrasts sharply with globalist policies that prioritized international institutions over American workers.

Taiwan Arms and Reunification Threats Expose Tensions

Despite trade optimism, China’s readout emphasized Beijing will “never allow Taiwan to be split,” directly challenging U.S. support for the island democracy. Trump approved $10 billion in arms sales to Taiwan in December 2025, essential assistance for a free nation facing authoritarian threats. China’s insistence on reunification and warnings about U.S. prudence on military aid reveal the limits of diplomatic engagement with communist regimes that reject basic freedoms. Taiwan’s security matters for American interests—the island produces critical semiconductors and represents a democratic bulwark against Chinese expansion. The administration must balance economic cooperation with unwavering commitment to allies resisting tyranny, avoiding the naïve compromises that embolden aggressors.

Nuclear Treaty Expiration and Minerals Push Reshape Strategy

The Trump-Xi call occurred one day before the New START treaty’s February 5 expiration, which previously capped U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals. Trump told the New York Times that any extension must include China, recognizing Beijing’s growing weapons capabilities that prior agreements ignored. Simultaneously, Vice President JD Vance addressed a critical minerals meeting aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese-dominated supply chains for technology and defense manufacturing. These parallel efforts reflect strategic clarity: America cannot rely on adversaries for essential resources or accept outdated arms control frameworks that disadvantage U.S. security. Xi’s same-day phone call with Vladimir Putin underscores the coordination among powers seeking to challenge American leadership, making self-reliance and strength-based diplomacy imperative.

Trump’s planned April visit to Beijing, mentioned in his announcement but notably absent from China’s readout, signals either diplomatic progress or revealing disagreement on basic facts. The administration’s ability to deliver concrete results on Iran isolation, fair trade enforcement, and Taiwan security will determine whether optimistic rhetoric translates into policies that protect American interests and constitutional values against globalist pressures and authoritarian ambitions.