China demands ceasefire: Beijing’s special envoy heads to Middle East
Photo: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (Getty Images)
China will send a special envoy to the Middle East to mediate in the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran in an effort to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region, states Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, according to The Times of Israel.
Details of Beijing’s initiative
During a conversation with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, China’s top diplomat stressed that Beijing is ready to play a constructive role in achieving a peaceful settlement.
China "will send a special envoy on Middle East issues to regional countries for mediation," Wang Yi said.
At this stage, the Chinese side has not disclosed the name of the diplomat or the exact list of countries he plans to visit. Beijing is urging all parties to refrain from using force.
"China strongly urges all parties to… return to dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible, and prevent the further escalation of tensions," the minister added.
Wang Yi emphasized that China supports Iran’s sovereignty, while also calling on the United States and Israel to halt their strikes.
According to the minister, Beijing consistently acts as a force for peace in such confrontations.
China’s position on the escalation in the Middle East
Official Beijing has repeatedly expressed concern over the situation in the region. Earlier, Chinese authorities described Israel’s strikes on Iranian territory as unacceptable and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Later, Beijing’s rhetoric somewhat shifted, with China issuing a new statement emphasizing the need for all parties to adhere to international law.
In addition, amid the threat of a large-scale war, reports have emerged about the possible blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, which could critically affect global oil supplies.
Beijing also sharply responded to threats by US President Donald Trump to punish countries that maintain economic ties with Tehran, stressing the inadmissibility of unilateral sanctions.
