Beijing has issued a strong appeal for an immediate cessation of all military activities in Iran, emphasizing the urgent need to prevent further destabilization in an already volatile region. The Chinese government expressed deep concern over recent military actions carried out by the United States and Israel, cautioning that these strikes could have far-reaching consequences not only for Iran but also for neighboring countries and the broader Gulf area.
During a routine press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning highlighted Beijing’s apprehension regarding the escalating conflict. She described the recent US and Israeli operations as breaches of international law, underscoring that such unilateral military interventions risk undermining regional peace and security. Mao stressed that the repercussions of these actions might extend beyond Iran’s borders, potentially igniting wider instability across the Gulf states.
In her remarks, Mao Ning reiterated China’s firm stance on respecting the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of all Gulf nations. She emphasized that safeguarding these principles is essential to maintaining stability in the region. Furthermore, China supports initiatives aimed at enhancing communication and dialogue among the involved countries, viewing diplomatic engagement as the most effective means to de-escalate tensions and avoid further conflict.
Addressing rumors and misinformation, Mao clarified that China was not informed beforehand about the US military operations in Iran. She firmly rejected allegations linking China to missile sales to Iran, labeling such claims as baseless and malicious attempts to distort facts. This statement reflects Beijing’s ongoing efforts to distance itself from the conflict and maintain a neutral position.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry also confirmed the tragic death of one Chinese citizen in Tehran amid the unrest. In light of the deteriorating security situation, the ministry has urged all Chinese nationals residing in Iran to evacuate promptly. To date, over 3,000 Chinese citizens have already been safely relocated out of the country, highlighting the seriousness with which China is treating the safety of its people abroad.
In response to circulating reports about the alleged killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mao Ning reiterated China’s long-standing opposition to the use of force as a tool in international relations. She emphasized that military interventions only serve to deepen conflicts rather than resolve them. Additionally, Mao mentioned that China continues to maintain communication channels with the United States, including discussions about potential high-level exchanges such as a possible visit by former US President Donald Trump, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts despite the tensions.
China also voiced its support for the United Nations Security Council to play a proactive role in mediating the crisis. The country advocates for multilateral cooperation and engagement to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional crisis. This position aligns with China’s broader foreign policy approach, which favors dialogue and peaceful resolution over military confrontation.
The Chinese statements come amid a sharp rise in tensions across the Middle East, following targeted strikes by US and Israeli forces on Iranian military and strategic installations. These developments have sparked widespread concern about the potential for a larger confrontation that could engulf the Gulf region and beyond. China’s call for restraint and respect for sovereignty reflects its desire to see stability restored through diplomatic means rather than continued violence.
