Beijing: China's top diplomat, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, has emphasized the importance of international dialogue to address the ongoing Middle East conflict. During a phone conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Wang highlighted the evolving dynamics in the region, noting a potential shift towards peace as the United States and Iran express readiness for talks.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang Yi stressed that continued conflict would only result in further casualties and losses, with the potential for broader regional instability. He urged the international community to promote dialogue among the conflicting parties, asserting that continued talks could pave the way for peace. Wang also reiterated China's support for Egypt's mediation efforts and expressed Beijing's willingness to contribute constructively to the peace process.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Abdelatty voiced concerns over the situation, particularly regarding the vulnerability of energy and power infrastructure to attacks, which could lead to regional instability. He affirmed Egypt's commitment to de-escalating tensions in the region.

The conflict has seen the US and Israel conducting airstrikes on Iran since February 28, resulting in over 1,340 casualties, including the death of then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, as well as Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US military forces, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while also disrupting global markets and aviation.