China Voices Deep Concern, Urges Halt to Escalation in Iran Conflict

(MENAFN) China on Monday urged a ceasefire, voicing “deep concern” about the regional spillover from US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which were followed by retaliatory attacks on US assets in the Gulf.

“The US and Israel carried out military strikes against Iran without authorization from the UN Security Council, which violates the international law,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters in Beijing.

She added, “China is deeply concerned about the spillover of the conflict affecting neighboring countries. China believes that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf countries should also be fully respected.”

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among those killed in the US-Israeli strikes on Saturday.

“We urge all parties to cease military actions and prevent further escalation of the conflict,” Mao said.

Regarding whether China had been informed in advance of the joint strikes, Mao confirmed, “China was not notified in advance regarding the US military action.”

The spokeswoman also denied reports suggesting a potential arms deal between Beijing and Tehran involving CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles. “The relevant reports are not true. As a responsible major country, China has always fulfilled its international obligations,” she said, adding that China “opposes malicious association and hype, and hopes relevant parties will do more to help ease tensions.”

Due to the ongoing conflict, Chinese authorities have evacuated more than 3,000 citizens from Iran, according to statements from the Foreign Ministry.

MENAFN02032026000045017640ID1110808539