China's ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, has strongly accused the United States of triggering the Iranian nuclear crisis. Speaking at the UN Security Council in New York, he identified the US as the main culprit in the current standoff - unilaterally withdrawing from the nuclear deal, renewing tough sanctions and finally attacking Iran's nuclear facilities with Israel.
"This move threatens the entire international non-proliferation regime and violates Iran's sovereignty," Fu warned. He said Iran nevertheless continues to fulfil its commitments and has repeatedly affirmed that it does not seek nuclear weapons.
China has called for an immediate return to the negotiating table. "The diplomatic path is not exhausted," Fu said, appealing to all sides to stop military provocations. The only way out, he said, is a political solution and respect for Iran's right to peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Beijing says the situation is extremely tense and the world is on the brink of another dangerous conflict. China has vowed to continue to play a "constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East".
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