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China calls for immediate halt to US–Israel military attacks against Iran, steps up diplomacy

By The South Asia Times

BEIJING - China on Thursday called for an immediate halt to the ongoing US and Israel attacks on Iran and urged a resolution of issues through dialogue, not the use of force.

During a regular press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China is “gravely concerned” about the rapidly escalating situation in the Middle East and has intensified diplomatic engagement with multiple countries in recent days.

According to Mao, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held a series of phone calls with his counterparts from Russia, Iran, Oman, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, discussing the regional situation and potential measures to reduce tensions.

During those discussions, Wang emphasized that the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter must be respected and that the arbitrary use of force in international relations should be rejected. He also urged that military operations stop immediately and that all sides return to dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible.

Mao said China believes further escalation of the conflict must be avoided, warning that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure could worsen an already fragile security environment in the region. She called on all parties involved to fulfill their international obligations and ensure the safety of civilians.

“The protraction and escalation of the conflict serves no one’s interest,” Mao said, adding that China maintains that war and force cannot provide lasting solutions to complex international disputes.

Instead, Beijing supports a political and diplomatic approach to resolving tensions and differences, she said.

As part of its diplomatic efforts, China plans to send Zhai Jun, the Chinese government’s special envoy on the Middle East issue, to the region in the coming days to engage with stakeholders and promote de-escalation.

Mao said China will continue maintaining communication with all parties involved while working with the broader international community to build consensus and encourage a return to negotiations.