China: Iran war deal to be submitted to UN Security Council

UN endorsement sought for legitimacy

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Tuesday that Beijing expects any agreement ending the US-Israeli war against Iran to be submitted to the UN Security Council for endorsement, telling the body in New York that such a step would confer legitimacy and authority on the pact. Speaking at the UN headquarters in remarks translated from Mandarin, Wang said the parties concerned must stay committed to pursuing a ceasefire and continue meeting each other halfway so peace can return to the Middle East as early as possible.

"We believe that once an agreement is reached, it will be submitted to the UN Security Council for endorsement for it to have legitimacy and authority," Wang said. He added that the Security Council must step forward to shoulder its responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security.

China assumes Security Council presidency

China is chairing the UN Security Council for the month of May, placing Wang at the center of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict that has entered its third month. His remarks came as officials in Washington and beyond have expressed optimism regarding progress toward finalizing the pact, though specific terms remain under negotiation. Wang emphasized that council endorsement would provide the necessary legal framework for any settlement to endure beyond temporary ceasefires.

The Chinese foreign minister's statements align with Beijing's long-standing advocacy for multilateral solutions to regional conflicts. China has consistently called for restraint from all parties and warned against actions that could further destabilize the Middle East.

War enters third month amid ceasefire

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran in late February, prompting Tehran to retaliate against Israel and US allies in the Gulf while closing the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global energy shipments. A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation and was later extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump, who has sought to broker a permanent settlement.

Trump said Saturday that an agreement with Iran to end the war had been "largely negotiated" and was awaiting finalization. The conflict has killed thousands and disrupted global energy markets, with the blockade of the strategic waterway affecting supply chains worldwide.