In a high-stakes emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN, called on the international community to step up efforts to dial down tensions between Israel and Iran. His warning was clear: without swift action, both nations—and the wider region—stand to face greater instability.
China's Diplomatic Push
Fu Cong condemned recent Israeli strikes on multiple Iranian nuclear facilities as violations of international law and threats to regional security. He urged the parties to the conflict, Israel in particular, to implement an immediate ceasefire and return to the negotiating table.
'Escalation risks severe losses not only for Iran and Israel but also for neighboring states,' he stressed.
Protecting Civilians
At the heart of China's appeal is civilian safety. Fu Cong called the indiscriminate use of force 'unacceptable,' and pressed both sides to avoid targeting nonmilitary sites and to facilitate the safe evacuation of third-country nationals caught in the crossfire.
Pathway to Political Solutions
The envoy highlighted how recent hostilities have derailed talks on Iran's nuclear program, setting a dangerous precedent with long-term fallout. He praised ongoing Geneva discussions between the Iranian foreign minister and European counterparts, and backed the joint statement from 21 Arab and Islamic nations advocating a ceasefire and resumed negotiations.
Major powers with influence on the parties should cool tensions, not inflame them. Fu Cong called on the Security Council to take timely action and added that China stands ready to strengthen communication and play a constructive role in restoring Middle East peace.
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China calls for international efforts to ease Israel-Iran tensions
cgtn.com
