China Calls for De-escalation as Iran-Israel Conflict Intensifies
China – As intense aerial assaults between Iran and Israel continue into their 11th day,it has called on both nations to de-escalate the conflict to avoid regional destabilization and global economic disruption. The Chinese government issued a strong diplomatic appeal on Monday, emphasizing the urgency of halting hostilities before they spiral further out of control.
The renewed violence follows a series of American airstrikes over the weekend targeting three Iranian nuclear sites with bunker-buster bombs. These strikes have significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East, prompting Iran to vow retaliation and Israel to ramp up its defensive and offensive operations.
Amid the growing crisis,its Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, stressed that Beijing is “deeply concerned” about the situation.
“The Chinese side urges the parties to the conflict to prevent the situation from escalating repeatedly, resolutely avoid the spillover of war, and return to the path of political resolution,” said Guo during a press briefing in Beijing.
China Warns of Global Impact from Middle East Conflict
Its warning came just hours after the United States confirmed its use of bunker-buster bombs in a coordinated strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. These strikes marked a major escalation in the already fragile relationship between Tehran and Washington, and pushed Iran and Israel closer to full-scale confrontation.
Beijing has maintained its position of non-interventionist diplomacy, but with vital trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz under threat, China has a vested interest in preserving regional stability. The strait, through which over 20% of global oil shipments pass, remains a key artery for China’s energy supply and global trade.
“The Persian Gulf and surrounding waters are important international trade routes,” Guo added. “Maintaining security and stability in this region is in the common interests of the international community.”
In response to the unfolding conflict, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio publicly urged China to play a more proactive role in the diplomatic space. Speaking on Sunday, Rubio said Beijing should help deter Iran from blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a move that would cause massive disruptions in global shipping and energy markets.
So far, China has avoided directly condemning either Iran or Israel. However, it has consistently called for dialogue and restraint, warning of the economic consequences of a prolonged or expanded conflict.
“China calls on the international community to make greater efforts to promote the de-escalation of the conflict and prevent regional instability from having a greater impact on global economic development,” Guo said
China has become increasingly involved in Middle Eastern diplomacy, particularly in the last decade, expanding its influence through trade, infrastructure investment, and energy partnerships. Iran has long been one of China’s key partners in the region, both economically and geopolitically. In 2021, the two nations signed a 25-year cooperation agreement covering energy, infrastructure, and security.
Simultaneously, China maintains strong commercial relationships with Israel, particularly in the areas of technology and innovation. As such, the current conflict places Beijing in a delicate position, with economic ties to both nations and a strategic imperative to ensure regional peace.
Observers note that China’s balanced response reflects its growing role as a mediator in global affairs, especially in contrast to the United States’ military-centric approach. Unlike Washington, which often sides with long-standing allies, China typically advocates for non-interference and multilateral solutions.
As markets react to the geopolitical tensions, oil prices have already shown signs of volatility. Analysts warn that any interruption to the Strait of Hormuz could send global oil prices soaring, which would negatively impact China’s energy security and the broader world economy.
With trade routes at risk and regional instability growing, China has made it clear that a peaceful resolution is in everyone’s best interest — not just for Middle Eastern nations, but for the entire global economy.
As Iran and Israel exchange fire and the world watches anxiously, China has emerged as a vocal advocate for peace and diplomacy. Reiterating its commitment to regional stability and international cooperation, China is urging all parties involved to return to the negotiating table.
With both the security of the Persian Gulf and the stability of global markets hanging in the balance, China’s message is clear: only through de-escalation and political dialogue can further tragedy and disruption be avoided.
The international community now looks to see whether these calls will be heeded — or whether the situation will continue to spiral beyond control.
Source- EWN
