Xi Jinping Steps Up to Facilitate Peace in Israel-Iran Conflict
Following a similar offer from Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed Beijing's readiness to mediate and promote peace between Israel and Iran amid escalating hostilities. Speaking during the China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Xi called for immediate steps to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.
Call for De-escalation and Constructive Engagement
President Xi emphasized that all parties involved should strive to reduce conflict and prevent further deterioration of the situation. He stated, “China stands ready to work with all parties to play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in the Middle East.”
During discussions with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Xi expressed China's concern over Israel’s military operations targeting Iranian sites, which have aggravated regional instability. He firmly opposed any actions violating national sovereignty and highlighted that military intervention is not the solution.
China’s Evacuation of Nationals Amid Growing Conflict
As the confrontation between Israel and Iran intensifies, China has initiated evacuation measures to ensure the safety of its citizens residing in both countries. The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed that some nationals have already been moved to neighboring states for safety.
Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun noted that diplomatic missions are actively coordinating evacuations and providing timely guidance to Chinese nationals on precautions and safety protocols. Efforts have also involved liaising with the governments of Iran and Israel to protect Chinese citizens and institutions amid the volatile situation.
International Reactions and Escalating Diplomatic Pressure
Amid mounting fears of a wider regional conflict, a coalition of 21 Arab and Muslim countries, led by Egypt, publicly condemned Israel’s military strikes on Iranian targets and urged restraint. Meanwhile, the G7 summit, convened in Canada, called for a reduction in hostilities, stressing both the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the urgency of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Notably, former US President Donald Trump abruptly left the G7 summit after urging the immediate evacuation of Tehran and pressing Iran to accept a nuclear deal. Chinese officials criticized such rhetoric, warning that inflammatory statements only deepen the crisis and hinder diplomatic solutions.
The Conflict's Latest Developments
The ongoing Israeli operation, dubbed ‘Operation Rising Lion,’ has targeted Iranian military and nuclear installations since last Friday. These strikes reportedly resulted in fatalities among Iranian officials and scientists, triggering retaliatory attacks. Both sides have suffered civilian casualties, intensifying global concern over the region’s stability and Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned Israel’s actions as a violation of international law and urged dialogue as the only viable path forward. Concurrently, the Chinese embassy in Israel has advised its nationals to leave through land borders, specifically via Jordan, citing ongoing airspace closures and an extended state of emergency in Israel until the end of June.
Looking Ahead
With tensions running high and international calls for calm growing louder, China's offer to mediate could play a pivotal role in steering the region toward a ceasefire and long-term peace. The coming days will be crucial as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent a broader regional conflict.
