China has strongly condemned Israel’s military strikes against Iran, calling them a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a threat to regional stability, as tensions between the two nations spiral into direct confrontation.
Speaking at an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council on Saturday, China’s Ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, voiced “deep concern” over the unfolding crisis and warned against further escalation.
“China condemns Israel’s violations of Iran’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity,” Fu said. “We urge Israel to immediately cease all dangerous military actions.”
According to a report by Reuters, the Chinese envoy said that Beijing opposes “inciting contradictions and escalating conflicts,” adding that the current situation could have severe consequences for the broader Middle East.
Fu also expressed serious concern over the potential impact of the conflict on diplomatic negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, which have remained stalled for months.
Earlier on Friday, Israel launched what it described as the start of a “long operation” aimed at curbing Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons. Iranian authorities responded with retaliatory airstrikes later that night, with loud explosions reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
China, which has sought to play a stabilising role in the Middle East in recent years, has issued advisories for its citizens in both Israel and Iran, citing a “complex and serious” security environment. Chinese nationals in Israel have been urged to remain alert and prepare for possible missile or drone attacks.
The rapid escalation has sparked international alarm, with several countries, including members of the UN Security Council, urging restraint and a return to diplomacy.
Beijing has repeatedly emphasised the importance of dialogue in resolving regional conflicts and has played a key role in recent efforts to reduce tensions, including mediating a rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia last year.
