Beijing – China has called on both Iran and Israel to take immediate steps to reduce escalating tensions, following a dramatic spike in hostilities between the two longtime adversaries. The appeal came after Iran launched a barrage of missile strikes on Israeli cities and Israel retaliated with attacks on military installations deep inside Iranian territory.
Speaking on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged, “We call on all parties to take immediate measures to de-escalate the situation, avoid further chaos in the region, and help return to the path of resolving disputes through dialogue and negotiation.”
The current wave of violence marks the most intense direct confrontation yet between the two nations, rooted in years of enmity and covert warfare through proxy forces. Israel claims its latest operations targeted key military and nuclear facilities in Iran, reportedly killing several top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists. However, a senior U.S. official stated that President Donald Trump had intervened to prevent an Israeli plot to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
China, a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy and Iran’s largest trading partner and oil buyer, emphasized its support for diplomatic solutions. On Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held phone conversations with his Iranian and Israeli counterparts, reiterating Beijing’s position in favor of peace and regional stability.
“Force cannot bring lasting peace,” Guo said. “China will continue to engage with all concerned parties, promote peace efforts, and encourage dialogue to prevent further instability in the region.”
China’s appeal underscores growing international concern that the conflict could spiral into a broader war, potentially engulfing much of the Middle East.
