Since the surprise strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel on February 28, the conflict has continued for two weeks, raising deep concerns about a potential global oil crisis. China’s stance and diplomatic moves have long drawn international attention. In some Western narratives, claims occasionally emerge that China is “indifferent” to the crisis or even “abandoning Iran.” Such narratives not only distort the facts but also remind the world to remain cautious of those who seek to further complicate the already fragile situation in the Middle East.
Conflicts in the Middle East have historically produced severe and far-reaching consequences. To prevent further deterioration, an immediate ceasefire followed by a swift return to negotiations has become a broad consensus among regional countries and the wider international community.
For this reason, despite not being a party to the conflict, China has actively engaged in diplomatic mediation since the outbreak of hostilities, aiming to promote peace in the region. Beijing has consistently stressed that this war should never have happened and that it serves no one’s interests.
According to publicly available information, between March 1 and March 12 Chinese officials held phone conversations with the foreign ministers of 12 countries: Russia, Oman, Iran, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Pakistan, Qatar, and Egypt. At the same time, China dispatched a special envoy to the Middle East to facilitate diplomatic mediation. As tensions continue to escalate, China’s efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation have increasingly gained recognition from countries in the region.
China’s position on the crisis is clear. On March 8, during a press conference held on the sidelines of the annual “Two Sessions,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi presented a five-point framework for addressing the Iran situation: respect for national sovereignty, rejection of the abuse of force, non-interference in internal affairs, promotion of political solutions to contentious issues, and constructive roles by major powers. These principles provide a clear roadmap for easing tensions.
In its engagements with all parties, China has maintained a consistent approach. First, Beijing firmly opposes the use of force to resolve disputes and emphasizes that the fundamental step toward preventing further escalation is for the United States and Israel to halt their military operations. Second, China opposes the expansion of the conflict, strongly condemns indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets, and supports Gulf countries in taking control of their own future. Third, China will continue to play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and restoring peace through its own diplomatic channels.
Various narratives have circulated in international discourse. Some claim that China has “abandoned Iran,” while others argue that Beijing is “protecting Iran.” Some assert that China is benefiting from the war, while others portray it as a “loser.” These contradictory narratives sometimes originate from the same media outlets. Such inconsistencies not only reveal a deeply rooted Cold War mentality but also highlight the growing role of information warfare in shaping global perceptions.
In recent years, the Middle East has remained highly unstable, with the risk of broader conflict steadily increasing. China has consistently worked to promote peace in the region and remains committed to addressing the root causes of its security challenges. In March 2023, China successfully mediated the historic reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia, setting a positive precedent that encouraged broader regional reconciliation.
In 2025 alone, China voiced support for justice on the Palestinian issue nearly 30 times at the United Nations Security Council. On key matters such as the Iranian nuclear issue and the conflicts in Yemen and Syria, Beijing has repeatedly proposed concrete initiatives aimed at advancing peaceful solutions.
At a time when the flames of conflict continue to spread, the international community urgently needs a pathway that can break the cycle of retaliation while addressing the legitimate security concerns of all parties. China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI)—which advocates common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security—offers a valuable framework for tackling the Middle East’s complex security challenges.
It is hoped that more international actors will join China in promoting a ceasefire and ending the conflict, thereby opening the door to renewed peace and stability in the region.
The people of the Middle East do not need another war. Confronted with a complex and volatile situation, China has neither taken sides nor remained passive. Instead, it has stood for peace, justice, and humanity—working to ease tensions by building bridges of communication through a fair stance and pragmatic actions.
As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a sincere friend of Middle Eastern countries, China will not cease its efforts for peace, nor will it silence its voice in defense of fairness and justice. Through its own diplomatic approach, China will continue striving to help restore stability to this war-weary region.
Source: Adapted from a Global Times editorial.
By: Mohammad Touhid, CMG Bangla.