China: Violence is not the answer to Iran's crisis

Beijing — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday, 3 March, stressed that the use of violence is not the answer to the problems in Iran. According to a Xinhua report, Wang said that restraint from the use or threat of force in international relations is a fundamental interest of all parties, including Israel.

Wang, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC, said this during a direct telephone conversation with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar at Sa’ar’s request. After hearing Sa’ar’s explanation of Israel’s position on the current situation, Wang said China consistently advocates resolving important international and regional issues through dialogue and consultation, and that all parties should respect the aims and principles of the UN Charter.

For years, China has been committed to promoting a political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, Wang said, adding that the latest talks between Iran and the United States have shown clear progress and also discussed Israel’s security concerns. ‘It is very regrettable that the process is now being disrupted by a military attack,’ Wang said.

China firmly opposes the military attack by Israel and the United States against Iran and says that the use of force cannot truly resolve the issue. Instead, Wang added, it would create new problems and serious repercussions. He noted that the true value of military power lies not on the battlefield but in preventing it, and that China calls for an immediate halt to military operations to prevent the conflict from escalating further and getting out of control.

Wang said China has consistently upheld a fair stance on Middle East issues and will continue to play a constructive role in pushing de-escalation. He also urged Israel to take concrete steps to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals in areas around the conflict. Sa’ar said Israel attaches great importance to this and will safeguard the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.