Beijing: China on Wednesday reiterated its call on Washington and Tehran to stop escalating tensions after the US launched fresh attacks on Iran. 'China is deeply concerned' over the latest situation, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Tuesday that American forces had launched air strikes against Iranian military targets. This action was reportedly in response to the downing of a US Army Apache helicopter on Monday. In retaliation, Iran's military headquarters confirmed early Wednesday that attacks had been launched on several US bases in the region following the American strikes on southern Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the US had chosen to test Tehran's resolve. Despite the heightened tensions, Lin Jian called on both sides to 'remain calm, exercise restraint, stop escalating tensions, and take concrete actions to ease tensions.'

Lin further urged the US and Iran to pursue political and diplomatic means for the 'early realization of a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire,' emphasizing the importance of dialogue to resolve the ongoing conflict.