China has called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic engagement as the escalating conflict in the Middle East enters its third day, with hostilities spreading across the region.
Israel and the United States have launched strikes on Iran and Lebanon, intensifying tensions that are now affecting neighbouring countries.
Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stressed the urgency of halting the violence.
“The most urgent task is an immediate cessation of military operations and preventing a spread and spillover of conflict,” Mao said, adding that China supports “a resolution through dialogue and negotiation.”
Mao confirmed that one Chinese citizen was killed in Tehran during the attacks. Israel and the United States have been carrying out strikes in the Iranian capital in an operation that reportedly led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader.
She said “the foreign ministry has instructed the Chinese embassy in Iran to provide assistance to the individual involved and the family,” but did not provide further details.
Mao also stated that China was not given prior notice of the US military action. She disclosed that Beijing, alongside Moscow, had called on the United Nations Security Council to convene an emergency meeting to address the situation.
Last week, China warned its citizens against travelling to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation. As of Monday, more than 3,000 Chinese nationals had left Iran.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have vowed to launch what they described as the most ferocious operation in history against Israel and US military bases, raising fears of further escalation in the region.