By Rehan Khan

BEIJING, Tuesday, June 17, 2025 (WNP): China has voiced deep concern over the escalating military conflict between Israel and Iran, calling for immediate de-escalation and renewed diplomatic efforts, while activating emergency measures to protect and evacuate its nationals in both countries.

During a regular press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that safeguarding Chinese citizens abroad remains a “top priority” for the government. He confirmed that China’s embassies and consulates in Iran and Israel had activated consular emergency response mechanisms soon after the conflict erupted.

“We are working closely with local Chinese communities and institutions, issuing safety advisories, coordinating emergency shelter, and actively facilitating evacuations,” Guo said. “Some Chinese nationals have already been safely relocated to neighboring countries.”

He urged all Chinese citizens currently in Israel and Iran to remain in contact with Chinese missions or call the consular emergency hotline 12308.

China criticizes U.S. position, calls for restraint

Responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent Truth Social post urging immediate evacuation of Tehran and demanding Iran sign a nuclear deal, Guo warned against unilateral pressure and inflammatory rhetoric.

“Fanning the flames, issuing threats, and exerting pressure only serve to aggravate tensions and expand the conflict,” Guo said. “We urge all relevant parties — especially those with considerable influence over Israel — to take responsibility and act immediately to prevent further escalation.”

Concerns over targeted media strikes, energy infrastructure

Addressing recent Israeli airstrikes on Iranian state media facilities — an act condemned by the Committee to Protect Journalists as a war crime — Guo reiterated China’s serious concern.

“The conflict is intensifying dangerously. A ceasefire is urgently needed,” he said. “Only through dialogue and consultation can sustainable peace be achieved. China will maintain close communication with all parties and continue to play a constructive role in de-escalation efforts.”

On a related note, China expressed alarm over Israeli attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure, which have raised concerns about global energy supply disruptions. While not directly addressing potential impacts on China’s energy imports, Guo called for “urgent measures” to stabilize the region and prevent any further deterioration of the situation.

Regional, multilateral diplomacy encouraged

Guo welcomed the recent joint statement by the foreign ministers of 21 Arab and Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, Pakistan, and the UAE. The statement called for respect for national sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes.

“This reflects the international community’s broad consensus,” Guo said. “China commends the efforts of these nations and stands ready to cooperate in promoting peace and preventing further chaos in the region.”

When asked whether China, as a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS — both of which include Iran — would spearhead multilateral efforts to mediate the conflict, Guo confirmed that Beijing was already engaging in diplomatic communication with Tehran, Tel Aviv, and other international stakeholders.

“The use of force cannot lead to lasting peace,” he stressed. “China will continue to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and a framework of collective security to address the concerns of all parties involved.”

Citizens in conflict zones urged to remain in contact

Amid heightened violence, the Chinese Embassy in Tel Aviv has advised its nationals to leave Israel. Guo reiterated that China is taking coordinated steps to protect its citizens in both Israel and Iran.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure their safety and support organized evacuations,” he said. “Chinese nationals in both countries should remain in close contact with embassies and consulates or reach out via the emergency hotline.”

As the conflict continues to evolve, Beijing’s measured but firm tone signals its intention to remain diplomatically active, protect its interests in the region, and support multilateral avenues for peace.