China urges ceasefire after fresh US strikes on Iran

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday urged Washington and Tehran to return to dialogue and honor ceasefire commitments, warning that disputes must be resolved through peaceful means following fresh US strikes on Iranian targets.

Beijing calls for immediate de-escalation

Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing, Mao said China urges relevant parties to honor their ceasefire commitments and resolve disputes through dialogue rather than military escalation. "China urges relevant parties to honor their ceasefire commitments, adhere to resolving disputes through peaceful means, continue dialogue and negotiations," she told reporters, according to state-run Global Times. She added that Beijing seeks a solution accommodating all sides' concerns to restore peace in the Gulf and broader Middle East.

US strikes target Iranian military assets

The US military said Monday it carried out "self-defense" strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launchers and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines — operations Washington described as defensive measures. Mao noted that Beijing has maintained close communication with relevant parties, including Tehran, since the outbreak of fighting. She called on Washington and Iran to resolve their differences through peaceful means and return to stability in the Middle East.

China's diplomatic efforts

Mao said China will continue following the spirit of President Xi Jinping's full proposition to play a positive role in restoring peace and tranquility in the Middle East. She reiterated Beijing's long-standing position favoring a political settlement to the nuclear dispute, stressing the importance of safeguarding the global non-proliferation regime. China has maintained close communication with Iran since fighting began and will continue working toward an early restoration of regional stability, she added.