Beijing: China on Tuesday criticized US President Donald Trump's call for Iranians to evacuate Tehran, describing it as "adding fuel to the fire" amid the escalating Iran-Israel conflict. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun addressed a news conference in Beijing, emphasizing that threats and exerting pressure would only intensify the situation.

According to Anadolu Agency, Guo urged influential countries, particularly those with sway over Israel, to take responsibility and de-escalate tensions. Trump's remarks on Truth Social called for an immediate evacuation of Tehran, asserting that Iran should have agreed to a deal he proposed.

Guo emphasized the importance of ceasing hostilities and returning to dialogue, highlighting the need for a political settlement as a consensus within the international community. The comments followed a joint statement by 21 countries' foreign ministers condemning Israel's airstrikes on Iran and advocating for regional de-escalation and nuclear disarmament.

The initiative, supported by countries including Trkiye, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, was welcomed by Beijing, with Guo commending their efforts to reduce tensions. Guo also expressed concern over Iranian state TV being targeted and called for immediate measures to prevent further turmoil in the region.

The urgency for a ceasefire and dialogue was stressed, with the Chinese Embassy in Tel Aviv urging its citizens to leave Israel promptly. Guo noted that efforts are underway to evacuate Chinese citizens from Iran and Israel swiftly.

Regional tensions have intensified since Israel's airstrikes on Iranian facilities last Friday, leading to retaliatory strikes from Tehran. Israeli authorities reported casualties and injuries from Iranian missile attacks.