China Advances Mediation Diplomacy Amidst US-Iran War, Wang Yi Says 'Immediate Ceasefire is Urgent'
China's foreign minister has called for an immediate ceasefire amidst the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict, while engaging in diplomatic discussions with Gulf state counterparts.
As the conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran escalates, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve these issues. On October 10, Wang communicated with the foreign ministers of Kuwait and Bahrain, urging a halt to military actions and highlighting that the recent attacks by the US and Israel on Iran constitute a clear violation of international law. He expressed grave concern over the escalating tensions in the Gulf region and the impact on regional security, stressing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and safety of Gulf nations.
Wang's remarks underscore that the current conflict originates from the aggressive actions of the US and Israel against Iran, which he asserts occurred without UN approval during ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US. He condemned any military actions that target innocent civilians and non-military objectives, reinforcing that such behavior should be universally condemned. His discussions with the ministers reflect China's intent to position itself as a mediator in the conflict, promoting a swift return to dialogue and emphasizing the need for compliance with international law.
In his discussions, Wang acknowledged the urgency of mediating efforts, stating that the priority is achieving a ceasefire as soon as possible. While highlighting the value of calling for dialogue and negotiation, he indicated that China is willing to strengthen communication with other Gulf states as part of its mediation efforts. Wang's statements also reveal a divergence in views between the ministers, particularly with Bahrain's foreign minister leaning towards resolving the situation through multilateral organizations like the UN, indicating different strategies within the region regarding the ongoing crisis.