Beijing: China on Monday reiterated its call for the US and Iran to begin peace talks 'as soon as possible,' while praising Pakistan's mediation efforts amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. 'China calls on relevant parties to start peace talks as soon as possible,' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters, adding that Beijing supports all efforts conducive to de-escalation and the resumption of dialogue.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mao Ning commended Pakistan for its role in deescalating tensions in the region. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar expressed Islamabad's willingness to host talks between the US and Iran as part of broader mediation efforts. The South Asian nation has already hosted a quadrilateral foreign ministers' meeting as part of its initiatives to mediate peace.

Mao Ning emphasized China's support for Pakistan's ongoing mediation and expressed readiness to collaborate with Islamabad and other parties to enhance communication and coordination. She stressed the importance of transitioning from hostility to peace and stability in the region.

Mao also reiterated China's opposition to attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, stating that military solutions will not address the root causes of the conflict. "Military means will not solve the root cause. The conflict serves no one's interests," she said.

The regional conflict has intensified since Israel and the US launched an offensive against Iran on February 28, resulting in over 1,400 deaths, including the then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has executed drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, which has led to casualties, damage to infrastructure, and disruptions in global markets and aviation.