China supports Iran’s sovereignty, urges end to military operations: Wang Yi

2026-03-02 - 15:57

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that China values its traditional friendship with Iran and supports Tehran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity and national dignity, according to the Xinhua News Agency. Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a telephone conversation on Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi at the latter’s request, Xinhua reported. During the call, Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest regional developments, stating that the United States had launched a war against Iran for the second time during ongoing Iran–U.S. negotiations. He noted that positive progress had been made in the latest round of talks, but said the U.S. actions violated international law and crossed Iran’s red line. “Iran has no choice but to defend itself with all its might,” Araghchi said, expressing hope that China would continue to play a constructive role in preventing further escalation in the region, according to Xinhua. Reiterating China’s principled position on the current situation, Wang voiced support for Iran in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. He added that China has urged the United States and Israel to immediately cease military operations, avoid further escalation and prevent the conflict from spreading across the Middle East. China believes that under the current severe and complex circumstances, Iran can maintain national and social stability, address the reasonable concerns of neighbouring countries and ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country, Wang said. In response, Araghchi assured that Iran would make every effort to guarantee the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions, Xinhua reported.