BEIJING: China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday condemned Israeli attacks on Iran's nuclear and military facilities that started early Friday and have continued since, urging a return to diplomacy. Wang spoke over the phone separately with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in separate readouts.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang, during his conversation with Araghchi, stressed Beijing's "clear condemnation" of "Israel's violation of Iran's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity," expressing support for Tehran in "safeguarding its national sovereignty and legitimate rights." Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest developments, denouncing nuclear facility attacks and warning that these actions could "drag" the entire region into a "full-scale war."

Wang called Israel's actions a "violation" of the UN Charter and "the basic norms of international relations." He stated that the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities set "a dangerous precedent that could have disastrous consequences." Furthermore, he urged countries with "influence over Israel to make concrete efforts to restore peace." Araghchi, in turn, urged the global community to request Israel to stop its military operations.

During his call with Saar, Wang listened to Israel's stance and views on the issue. In response, Wang expressed opposition to Israel's attacks on Iran, stating that the tensions will affect all of the Middle East. Wang emphasized that diplomatic means to solve the Iranian nuclear issue are not yet exhausted and that hope for a peaceful solution remains, urging a return to diplomatic efforts.