China Calls for Immediate Middle East Ceasefire, Emphasizes Regional Sovereignty

BEIJING – Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday called for an immediate halt to military operations in the Middle East, emphasizing the necessitate to prevent further escalation and respect the sovereignty of regional nations. Speaking at a press conference during the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress, Wang stated that the ongoing conflict is “a war that should not have happened” and benefits no party involved.

Five Principles for Addressing the Middle East Crisis

Wang Yi outlined five key principles guiding China’s approach to the Middle East crisis:

1. Immediate Ceasefire: An immediate stop to all military operations is crucial to prevent further escalation and the spread of conflict.
2. Respect for Sovereignty: The sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Iran and all countries in the Gulf region must be respected and not violated.
3. Rejection of Force: “Force provides no solution, and armed conflict will only increase hatred and breed new crises,” Wang emphasized, rejecting the use of military force as a means to resolve the conflict.
4. Non-Interference: Middle Eastern affairs should be determined independently by countries in the region, without external interference or attempts at regime change. “Plotting color revolution or seeking regime change will find no popular support,” Wang added.
5. Political Settlement: All parties should return to the negotiating table and resolve differences through dialogue to achieve common security.

China’s Role and the Global Security Initiative

Wang Yi reiterated China’s readiness to collaborate with Middle Eastern countries to implement the Global Security Initiative, aiming to restore order, tranquility, and peace to the region. He urged major countries to act with “justice and righteousness” and contribute positively to the Middle East’s peace and development.

Background of the Conflict

The current conflict in the Middle East escalated on February 28th with strikes launched by the US and Israel against Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and US interests in neighboring countries, particularly in the Gulf region. Israel has also conducted retaliatory attacks in Lebanon following rocket and drone fire from Hezbollah.

China’s Stance on Regional Stability

According to China Daily, China consistently prioritizes neighboring countries in its diplomatic agenda, serving as an anchor for regional peace and a driver of regional development and prosperity. Wang Yi affirmed that China’s commitment to amicable, secure, and prosperous relations with its neighbors remains steadfast.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi also reaffirmed China’s commitment to amicable, secure, and prosperous neighborhood relations, stating that this is a core tenet of Chinese diplomacy.