A Chinese envoy called for all parties to \"exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation\" during an emergency United Nations Security Council session addressing the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel.
The emergency session, held at Israel's request, came amid fears of Iran potentially launching a counterattack. Dai Bing, the charge d'affaires of China's permanent mission to the UN, emphasized the unacceptable humanitarian disaster in Gaza and the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire. He expressed deep concern over the regional tensions and the serious spillover effects of the prolonged conflict.
Highlighting the airstrike on April 1 that targeted Iran's diplomatic compound in Syria, resulting in casualties and property damage, Dai condemned the incident as a grave violation of the UN Charter and international law, infringing on both Syrian and Iranian sovereignty.
The recent escalation, including Iran's retaliatory strike, has heightened China's concerns. Dai reiterated China's call for all involved parties to maintain calm, resolve differences according to the UN Charter and international law, and prevent further escalation.
He pointed out that the Palestinian issue remains central to the Middle East's stability and prosperity, warning that unchecked conflict would lead to further negative consequences and increased regional instability. Dai advocated for the immediate implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2728 and the pursuit of a two-state solution to break the cycle of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Wang Jin, director of the Israel Research Center at Northwest University of China, noted that while Iran's recent strikes demonstrated strategic resolve, Tehran has announced a halt to military actions following these incidents. He observed that the likelihood of further escalation between Iran and Israel remains relatively limited, although other uncertain factors could influence the situation.
The United States has also expressed a strong desire to prevent escalation, refraining from large-scale military retaliation against Iran and its allies while supporting Israel's defensive measures, such as intercepting missiles and drones. The U.S. has called for increased mediation and coordination among regional countries and the international community to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East.
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Chinese envoy urges calm as UNSC discusses Iran-Israel tension
cgtn.com
