Mon Jun 16 17:50:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Following escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, including missile strikes and attacks on military and nuclear facilities, China has urged both countries to de-escalate. China, a key commercial partner of Iran, expressed support for Tehran in calls between its top diplomat and both Israeli and Iranian counterparts. China advocates for dialogue and negotiation as the path to resolving the conflict, emphasizing that force cannot bring lasting peace.
**News Article:**
**China Urges Iran and Israel to De-escalate Amidst Heightened Conflict**
**Beijing, June 16, 2025** – China has called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel, following a series of missile strikes and attacks on military and nuclear sites. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that all parties should “immediately take measures to cool down the tensions, prevent the region from falling into greater turmoil, and create conditions for returning to the right track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiations.”
The plea comes after Israel launched a surprise assault on Iran last week, which was met with a barrage of retaliatory missile strikes on Israeli cities. China’s top diplomat Wang Yi held phone calls with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts on Saturday, expressing Beijing’s support for Tehran, a key commercial partner and major oil buyer.
“Force cannot bring lasting peace,” Guo emphasized, adding that China will continue to communicate with relevant parties to promote peace and dialogue, aiming to prevent further escalation in the region. The escalating conflict has sparked international concerns about a broader Middle Eastern war.
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