BEIJING, Jan. 13 -- China has vowed to protect its rights and interests after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on any country doing business with Iran. Chinese officials warned that trade restrictions could escalate tensions and hurt global commerce.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said China believes there are no winners in a tariff war. She stressed that Beijing would "resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests" in response to the U.S. move.

Read more: Protests persist as Iran warns US, Israel of strikes if attacked

The tariff announcement is part of Washington's strategy to pressure countries maintaining trade with Iran. Beijing, a major trading partner of Tehran, has consistently opposed...