Beijing: China on Monday called for a ceasefire, expressing 'deep concern' over the regional spillover of US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which then retaliated by targeting US assets in the Gulf region. 'The US and Israel carried out military strikes against Iran without authorization from the UN Security Council, which violates international law,' Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mao Ning stated that China is deeply concerned about the spillover of the conflict affecting neighboring countries. China believes that the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Gulf countries should also be fully respected. The US-Israeli strikes resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, among others, prompting Iran to retaliate with drone and missile strikes targeting US-linked sites in Gulf countries, which led to several deaths, including four US service members.

Mao urged all parties to cease military actions and prevent further escalation of the conflict. She lauded the joint statement by Gulf nations that reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy, stating that China supports regional countries in valuing good-neighborliness, enhancing communication and coordination, and working jointly for peace and stability in the region.

When questioned about reports of blocking the transition of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf due to the conflict, Mao emphasized the importance of the waterway as an international trade route for goods and energy. She stressed that keeping the region secure and stable serves the common interests of the international community.

The spokeswoman reported that the death toll from the US and Israeli airstrikes since Saturday has climbed to 555, according to the Iranian Red Crescent. She also mentioned that more than 3,000 Chinese citizens have been evacuated from Iran due to the ongoing conflict.

Mao clarified that China was not notified in advance regarding the US military action and dismissed claims of Beijing and Tehran nearing an agreement on the purchase of CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles. Mao reiterated that China opposes malicious association and hype, and hopes relevant parties will do more to help ease tensions.