China Condemns Israeli Strikes, Warns Against Violating Iran’s Sovereignty
By Caroline Ameh
China has strongly condemned Israel’s recent military strikes on Iranian territory, warning against actions that violate Iran’s sovereignty and risk further destabilizing the Middle East.Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called for restraint from all parties involved, stressing that “unilateral military actions threaten regional peace and stability.”“
China firmly opposes actions that undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of any country, including Iran,” Lin stated, emphasizing Beijing’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts.The remarks come in the wake of Israel’s large-scale military operation—code-named Rising Lion—which targeted nuclear enrichment sites in Natanz as well as military installations in Tehran. The strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists.While China refrained from directly condemning Israel, the tone of its statement signals disapproval of the operation and aligns with its longstanding foreign policy principles of non-interference and respect for national sovereignty.
The airstrikes have triggered immediate responses across the region. Iran has retaliated by launching drones toward Israeli territory. Meanwhile, U.S. military bases in Iraq and Syria have heightened their alert status, and Gulf states have suspended civilian air traffic over parts of the region due to rising security threats.The United States, which has stood by Israel amid the growing hostilities, has issued a contrasting message. President Donald Trump pledged to support both the U.S. and Israel in the event of further Iranian retaliation.
The U.S. has also begun relocating diplomatic personnel and bolstering military readiness in the region.China’s response underscores the growing geopolitical divide over the handling of tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. As a key signatory to the original 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Beijing has consistently advocated for renewed diplomatic engagement and warned against military actions that could derail the agreement.In a parallel call for calm, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged all nations to “prioritize dialogue over confrontation,” warning that further escalation could have devastating consequences.With the Middle East on edge, China’s intervention reflects rising global concern and highlights the urgent need for de-escalation in an increasingly volatile situation.
