Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, global leaders warn that military action risks dragging the region into deeper instability. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that additional interventions could have enormous consequences for the whole region and for international peace and security.
Chinese President Xi Jinping recently spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin to outline four urgent proposals: promote a ceasefire, protect civilian lives, open channels for dialogue, and mobilize international efforts toward peace. These steps aim to address both immediate needs and long-term stability.
In parallel, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has engaged multiple foreign counterparts to explain China’s position and its commitment to easing tensions. He noted that force has never been the right way to resolve disputes, highlighting the risk of a spiraling cycle of violence that could push the Middle East into prolonged instability.
The humanitarian cost is mounting: lessons from the 2003 Iraq War remind us that hundreds of thousands of civilians lost their lives. Since October 2023, over 50,000 civilians in Gaza have perished, and recent bombardments continue to devastate homes, hospitals, and schools. These scenes of destruction challenge the conscience of humanity.
Protecting civilians must remain a red line. All parties should abide by international law and avoid actions that harm innocent people. Dialogue and peace talks remain the only sustainable path forward. Experts also warn that attacks on nuclear facilities under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency carry far-reaching risks for global security and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
As the conflict threatens to spill over, now is the time for decisive action: an immediate ceasefire, full protection for civilians, renewed negotiations, and a united international push for lasting peace.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
