Beijing: China's Foreign Ministry has announced its continued commitment to mediating and reducing tensions in the ongoing US-Israel military conflict with Iran, underlining its primary goal of halting hostilities and facilitating dialogue among the involved parties.
According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the issue, responding to inquiries about Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's recent diplomatic efforts in light of the conflict that began on February 28. The joint military campaign by the US and Israel against Iran has resulted in approximately 1,300 casualties, including Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has targeted US bases and diplomatic missions along with civilian infrastructure in the Gulf region.
Guo expressed China's "grave concern" over the escalating situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communication with all relevant parties to achieve consensus and de-escalate tensions. He urged those involved to prevent further regional instability and highlighted the critical role of energy security in the global economy, particularly given the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global trade and energy transport.
The Chinese government is actively pursuing diplomatic dialogue, with Wang Yi engaging in detailed discussions with counterparts from various nations, including Iran and Israel. Guo reiterated that all sides should respect national sovereignty, reject the use of force, and work towards a political resolution to the conflict.
Zhai Jun, China's special envoy to the Middle East, is currently on an official trip to the region, meeting with relevant parties to advance China's mediation efforts. His first stop was in Riyadh, where he held discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan.
In response to questions about the recent election of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new supreme leader, Guo reaffirmed China's stance on non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. He addressed comments by US President Donald Trump, who criticized the election of Ali Khamenei's son as Iran's supreme leader. Guo emphasized that Iran's decision was constitutionally based and should be respected in accordance with international relations principles.