Pakistan, May 2 -- China's Ministry of Commerce has moved to block U.S. sanctions imposed on five Chinese oil refineries accused of purchasing Iranian crude. The decision marks a sharp escalation in trade and geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington. Officials said the sanctions violate international law.

The ministry announced it had issued an injunction against the measures. It said the United States cannot legally enforce or recognize the penalties on the named companies. The move is seen as a direct rejection of Washington's unilateral sanctions policy.

Read more: China issued a strong statement for end to US unilateral sanctions

The affected firms include Hengli Petrochemical (Dalian) Refinery and several so-called "te...