China Demands Immediate Ceasefire in Middle East, Warns of Spreading Conflict

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has issued a strong call for an immediate halt to hostilities in the Middle East, warning that the conflict risks spiraling out of control and spreading to other nations. He emphasized that military force offers no solution and only breeds further hatred, exacerbating an already tense regional situation.

Wang Yi outlined fundamental principles for resolving the crisis, stating that the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of all Gulf nations, including Iran, must be respected and are inviolable. He stressed the importance of refraining from the abuse of force, arguing that frequent military action does not prove greatness and that innocent civilians should never become victims of war.

"The strong are not always right. The world must not return to the law of the jungle," Wang Yi declared during a briefing in Beijing. He called on all parties to swiftly return to the negotiating table to settle differences through equal dialogue and work towards ensuring common security.

The top diplomat also warned against external interference, asserting that attempts to provoke "color revolutions" or regime change would find no support. He stated that the peoples of the Middle East are the true masters of their region and must be allowed to resolve its issues independently.

Wang Yi urged major powers to act with justice, follow the right path, and play a more positive role in promoting peace and development in the Middle East. He expressed Beijing's readiness to work with regional countries to implement a global security initiative aimed at restoring normalcy for people's welfare and global peace.

The urgent appeal follows a significant escalation in hostilities. On February 28th morning, US and Israeli forces launched a joint military operation against Iran, conducting missile strikes on various targets within the country which resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

In response, Tehran initiated missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory and struck American bases and assets across Gulf states. Iran has also blocked the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments—to maritime traffic.