BEIJING, Friday, March 13, 2026 (WNP): Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Guo Jiakun said China strongly condemns indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets and announced emergency humanitarian assistance for families affected by a deadly strike on a school in Iran.
Speaking during a regular press briefing in Beijing, Guo expressed deep sorrow over reports that airstrikes on Shajarah Tayyebeh Primary School in Iran’s Hormozgan province killed more than 160 schoolgirls during the escalation of hostilities that began on February 28.
“China condemns all indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets,” the spokesperson said. “Attacks on schools and harm to children in particular seriously violate international humanitarian law and breach the fundamental principles of human conscience.”
Guo said China mourns the loss of the students and extended sincere condolences to their families. He announced that the Red Cross Society of China has decided to provide US$200,000 in emergency humanitarian assistance to the Red Crescent Society of Iran to support bereaved parents and affected families.
The spokesperson added that China stands ready to continue providing necessary humanitarian assistance to Iran to help its people cope with the difficult situation.
The remarks came in response to a question from a journalist with Beijing Youth Daily regarding whether China would offer aid following the reported school attack, which has drawn international concern over civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the United States and Iran.
Responding to another question from Asharq News regarding reports that Saudi Arabia intercepted more than 70 Iranian drones allegedly targeting the Shaybah oilfield, Guo said China remains gravely concerned about the escalating tensions across the Middle East.
“China believes that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected and must not be infringed,” he said, reiterating Beijing’s opposition to attacks on civilian infrastructure.
Guo called on all parties involved in the conflict to halt military operations immediately and return to dialogue and negotiations to prevent further escalation.
“All sides should avoid worsening the situation and prevent the conflict from spreading and spilling over,” he said.
China has repeatedly urged restraint in the Middle East crisis, warning that continued escalation could threaten regional stability and disrupt global energy markets and international security.
