China's foreign minister Wang Yi condemns the Middle East conflict, calling for peace and regional cooperation.
At a press conference in Beijing, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed strong condemnation for the ongoing war in the Middle East, stating that it 'should never have happened.' He reiterated China's call for an immediate ceasefire and stressed the country's readiness to collaborate with regional nations to promote stability and order in the region.
The conflict began in late February when the US and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, leading to retaliatory attacks, including missile and drone strikes targeting US and Israeli interests in neighboring countries. The situation has further escalated with Israel launching fresh attacks in Lebanon after incidents of cross-border violence by Iran-aligned militias such as Hezbollah.
Wang Yi emphasized that the war benefits no party and that resolving tensions should be approached through political dialogue rather than military force. He also highlighted China's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and security of all nations in the region and rejected the use of force as a means of resolving conflicts.
Additionally, Wang Yi pointed out that the people of the Middle East are the 'true masters of the region' and that regional affairs should be independently decided by local countries. He warned against attempts at regime change or color revolutions, which he said lack popular support and would only deepen regional instability.
Overall, Wang Yi's statements underscored China's position as a neutral mediator in the Middle East conflict and its advocacy for peaceful resolution and regional cooperation to avoid further escalation and conflict spread.