China has called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts to halt the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has now entered its third day.
Israel and the United States have launched strikes on Iran and Lebanon, with tensions spreading to neighbouring countries.
Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said: “The most urgent task is an immediate cessation of military operations and preventing a spread and spillover of conflict.”
She added that China supports “a resolution through dialogue and negotiation.”
Mao confirmed that one Chinese citizen was killed in Tehran during the attacks. Israel and the United States have been carrying out strikes in the Iranian capital in an operation that reportedly led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader.
She said “the foreign ministry has instructed the Chinese embassy in Iran to provide assistance to the individual involved and the family,” but did not share further details.
Mao also told reporters that China was not given prior notice of the US military action. She said Beijing, alongside Moscow, had called on the United Nations Security Council to hold an emergency meeting over the situation.
Last week, China warned its citizens against travelling to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation. As of Monday, more than 3,000 Chinese nationals had left Iran.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have vowed to launch what they described as the most ferocious operation in history against Israel and US military bases.
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