China has voiced profound concern regarding Israel’s recent military incursions into Iran, cautioning that the escalation poses a threat to destabilize the entire Middle East and calling upon all involved parties to exercise restraint.
In a carefully articulated statement issued on Thursday, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry indicated that Beijing is “closely monitoring” developments following what it described as a “serious act of aggression” by Israel against Iranian territory.
“We are deeply concerned about the potential consequences of these attacks,” the spokesperson affirmed, adding that “a show of aggression is not in the interest of any party involved.”
The Chinese government reiterated its long-standing position advocating for dialogue and diplomacy over military confrontation. “China urges all sides to act with calm and restraint,” the statement read. “We emphasize the importance of safeguarding regional peace and stability and call on the international community to help prevent further escalation.”
These comments were made a day after Israel launched extensive airstrikes on Iran, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian military officials and two nuclear scientists. In response, Iran reportedly launched a barrage of drones toward Israel, which Tel Aviv claimed to have successfully intercepted.
China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a significant participant in Middle Eastern diplomacy, underscored its willingness to contribute to de-escalation efforts. “We are ready to play a constructive role in reducing tensions and facilitating dialogue between the concerned parties,” the Foreign Ministry spokesperson added.
Beijing has historically maintained balanced relations with both Tehran and Tel Aviv but has become increasingly vocal in recent months about the imperative to avoid military solutions in the region. In 2023, China facilitated a landmark rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia, two nations that had been in prolonged opposition.
In its most recent response, China reaffirmed that adherence to national sovereignty and international law must remain paramount. The Foreign Ministry urged all nations, particularly those with influence in the region, to advocate for diplomatic solutions and prevent a full-scale conflict.