US government officials have backed the right of people to "peacefully protest" in China as protesters in multiple Chinese cities have demonstrated against the government's "zero-COVID" policy.

White House National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby told reporters on Monday that people should be allowed the right to assemble and to peacefully protest policies.

He added that the United States is going to watch the situation closely.

A spokesperson for the National Security Council separately said that everyone has the right to peacefully protest in the US and around the world, including in China.

The official also said it's going to be very difficult for China to be able to contain the virus through its zero-COVID strategy.