China said today it will “resolutely” defend its interests after President Donald Trump announced that the United States will impose a 25% customs tariff on any country that trades with Iran, where major anti-government protests are taking place.

“We have always believed that there are no winners in a trade war and China will resolutely protect its rights and legitimate interests,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a regular briefing for reporters.

The announcement, made yesterday, Monday, by the US president, is likely to hit China, Iran’s main trading partner, hardest.

Mao Ning reiterated that China is opposed to possible US military operations in Iran.

Asked about the safety of Chinese in Iran and Chinese tourists visiting the country, Mao replied that Beijing is “carefully monitoring the development of the situation.” “We will take all measures to protect the safety of Chinese nationals,” he said.