China has called for an immediate halt to military actions in the Gulf region following Iran's retaliatory strikes on U.S. bases, emphasizing the need to prevent further destabilization. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Monday that unauthorized U.S.-Israel operations violated international law and risked escalating tensions across the Middle East.
The remarks come after Iran launched missiles and drones targeting American installations in Gulf Cooperation Council states over the weekend, responding to strikes that reportedly killed its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Mao stressed China's commitment to respecting Gulf nations' sovereignty and safeguarding critical trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
"Unilateral military actions without UN Security Council approval undermine regional stability," Mao said during a press briefing, highlighting concerns about spillover effects on neighboring countries. She reiterated China's position that dialogue, rather than force, should resolve disputes.
Analysts note the statement reflects Beijing's growing role as a mediator in global conflicts, particularly in energy-rich regions central to its Belt and Road Initiative. The call for restraint aligns with China's emphasis on multilateralism amid rising U.S.-Iran hostilities.
