Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded to several questions related to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran on Monday press conference, emphasizing that Chinese side will continue to communicate with relevant parties, to avoid further turmoil in the regional situation.

A media inquiry was regarding that China's Foreign Minister held phone talks with the foreign ministers of Iran and Israel, and China stated that attacks on nuclear facilities have set a dangerous precedent. In response to whether China believes the conflict risks expanding or escalating into a regional war and what measures will China take to prevent such a war, Guo said China is deeply concerned about Israel's attack on Iran, which has led to a sudden escalation of military conflict. 

"We call on all parties to take immediate measures to de-escalate situation as soon as possible, prevent greater instability in the region, and create conditions for returning to the right track of resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation," Guo said.

On China's mediation and diplomatic efforts, Guo emphasized that "if the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate or expand, countries in the Middle East will be the first to suffer." 

He noted that force cannot bring lasting peace. Any international dispute should be resolved through dialogue and consultation, and only by upholding the concept of common security can the legitimate concerns of all parties be fully addressed. 

When asked about whether Chinese officials have further contact with Iranian and Israeli officials since Chinese Foreign Minister had separate calls with the Foreign Ministers of Iran and Israel over the weekend, and how China views the feasibility of reaching the Iran nuclear deal, the spokesperson said that Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with the Israeli Foreign Minister over the weekend, urging both Iran and Israel to resolve their differences through dialogue, and that China will continue to play its role in resolving the current Iran-Israel conflict. 

"Regarding the prospects of the Iran nuclear talks you mentioned, I want to emphasize that China has always advocated for the peaceful resolution of the Iran nuclear issue through political and diplomatic means," Guo said. 

China is willing to continue communication and coordination with relevant parties to play a constructive role in cooling down the situation, and create a favorable external environment for the political and diplomatic resolution of the Iran nuclear issue, Guo said.

Global Times