Beijing: China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, stated on Monday that the recent US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites has set a dangerous precedent with potentially serious global consequences. His remarks came during a meeting in Beijing with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who was visiting China.
According to Anadolu Agency, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of resolving international disputes peacefully through dialogue and negotiation. He criticized Israel's preemptive strike on Iran, which was justified by Tel Aviv due to "potential future threats." Moreover, Wang condemned the US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites protected by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), arguing that such actions undermine diplomatic solutions and promote the use of force. He warned that this behavior could lead to severe consequences.
Wang further remarked that while peace requires strength for protection, strength alone does not guarantee true peace. He urged all parties involved to reduce tensions, resume political dialogue, and make genuine efforts towards restoring peace and stability in the Middle East. Tony Blair supported this view, noting that the UK is closely monitoring the Israel-Iran conflict and advocates for a return to diplomatic negotiations to swiftly reestablish peace and security in the region.
The meeting also covered the ongoing war in Ukraine and other pressing international matters. On the topic of Chinese-UK relations, Wang highlighted China's appreciation for the UK's commitment to a consistent and mutually respectful policy towards China. He expressed China's readiness to enhance collaboration with the UK across various fields to promote sound and stable bilateral relations.
Blair acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by the world today, which require greater coordination and joint responses. He emphasized that isolating China is not feasible and stressed the importance of understanding China better. Blair also called for enhanced dialogue and cooperation between the UK and China to ensure continued improvement in bilateral ties.
The context of these discussions follows recent statements by US President Donald Trump, who announced that American forces had bombed Iran's Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites. The US targeted these sites with six bunker-buster bombs dropped on the Fordo facility using B-2 stealth bombers and dozens of submarine-launched cruise missiles striking the Natanz and Isfahan facilities. This escalation forms part of a US-backed Israeli military assault on Iran since June 13, which has led to retaliatory attacks from Tehran on Israel.
Israeli authorities reported that at least 25 people have been killed and hundreds injured due to Iranian missile attacks, while the Iranian Health Ministry stated that at least 430 people have been killed and more than 3,500 wounded in the Israeli assault.