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The People’s Republic of China has expressed serious concern over the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran.
At a briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that China is “deeply concerned” about Israel’s strikes on Iran and their possible serious consequences.
“The Chinese side is gravely concerned about Israel’s strike on Iran and is deeply worried about the serious consequences that such actions could lead to,” the diplomat said.
He stressed that Beijing opposes encroachments on Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, as well as the escalation of contradictions and the spread of conflict in the region.
“A sharp escalation of the situation in the region is not in the interests of either side,” Lin said.
China called on all parties to exercise restraint and promote peace and stability in the Middle East, stressing Beijing’s readiness to play a constructive role in reducing tensions.
Interestingly, the spokesperson refrained from directly condemning Israel’s actions, which may indicate China’s cautious balance in the region, where Beijing is trying to maintain stable relations with both Tehran and Jerusalem.
China has traditionally taken a neutral stance in conflicts in the Middle East, focusing on calls for a political settlement and preventing destabilisation of energy supplies that are important to the Chinese economy.
