In brief
China's strong reaction highlights the complexities of its ties with Iran amid rising regional tensions and the call for peace negotiations.
In a sharp rebuttal to the U.S. airstrikes on Iran, China's ambassador to the United Nations, Fu Cong, asserted that the American actions have not only endangered Iran but also tarnished the U.S.'s credibility on the world stage. Speaking to Chinese state media following an emergency Security Council session, Fu emphasized that while the U.S. has escalated violence, China, alongside Russia and Pakistan, is working on a U.N. resolution to advocate for a cease-fire, civilian protection, and the initiation of peace talks. Chinese state outlets echoed this sentiment, accusing the U.S. of perpetuating chaos and instability through military interference. The Global Times, a Communist Party-affiliated tabloid, articulated that the U.S. strikes have severely compromised the international security framework. Online discussions in China reflect public outrage over the perception that Iran was misled into negotiations, only to find itself under attack. Despite strong condemnations, Beijing's support for Iran remains nuanced, as it is among Tehran's most significant economic partners, particularly in the energy sector. Amid concerns over a potential conflict expansion, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on China to intervene and dissuade Iran from threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz—a key oil transport route. Analysts suggest that while China may oppose such moves from Tehran, it will only act in its interests, potentially complicating U.S.-China relations. Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, avoided direct questions about a response to any closure of the strait, instead urging global cooperation to ease the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
