Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong shocked by US and Israeli strikes against Iran

China's permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, on Saturday expressed shock at the military strikes, which took place while the United States and Iran were holding diplomatic talks.

Fu made the remarks at a UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East. He expressed China's deep concern over the situation and supported the UN Secretary-General's call for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic negotiations.

The United States and Israel on Saturday openly launched military strikes against targets on Iranian territory, leading to a sudden escalation of regional tensions. Fu noted that China is deeply concerned about these developments. He stressed that China has long advocated that all parties abide by the goals and principles of the UN Charter and opposes the use or threat of force in international relations.

He said the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran and other countries in the region must be respected.

China is also deeply saddened by the large number of civilian casualties caused by the conflict, Fu Cong said. He stressed that the red line of protection of civilians in armed conflicts must never be crossed and the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable.

China calls on all parties to fulfil their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, to effectively ensure the safety of civilians and refrain from attacks on civilian facilities, the Chinese ambassador said.

The use of force is not the right way to resolve international disputes; according to Fu Cong, it only deepens hatred and confrontation. Escalating and spreading tensions in the Middle East is not in the interest of any party. Dialogue and negotiation, he believes, are the only way to resolve differences and disputes.

China is therefore calling for an immediate halt to military operations to prevent a further cycle of escalation.

At the same time, Fu Cong stressed that the parties involved should show political sincerity, resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible and return to the path of a political solution.

He also added that China is ready to work with the international community to build consensus for peace and help restore peace and stability in the region.

CMG