China Issues Strong Statement on US-Israeli Military Operation Against Iran
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally expressed deep concern regarding the recent military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against Iran. In an official statement released on Saturday, the ministry urgently called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of the volatile situation. The Chinese government emphasized the critical importance of respecting Iran's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity as fundamental principles of international law.
Evacuation Orders for Chinese Nationals in the Region
In a related development on Sunday, China's embassy in Israel issued a critical security notice, strongly advising all Chinese citizens currently in Israel to evacuate to safer areas within the country without delay. The advisory specifically mentioned the Taba border crossing as a viable exit route for those seeking to leave for Egypt. Simultaneously, China's foreign ministry issued a separate urgent advisory for Chinese nationals in Iran, urging them to depart "as soon as possible" and detailing four specific land evacuation routes to neighboring countries: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey, and Iraq.
Details of the Military Operation and International Reactions
The military action that prompted these responses occurred on Saturday, with the United States and Israel launching coordinated strikes targeting Iran's military capabilities. In a significant development, Iranian state media reported that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed during the operation. China's state-run Xinhua news agency published a strongly worded commentary on Sunday, condemning the attack as "brazen aggression against a sovereign nation" and an example of "power politics and hegemony." The commentary further criticized Washington's actions as a "flagrant violation" of the United Nations Charter's purposes and principles and a departure from established norms of international relations.
Regional Impact and Aviation Disruptions
The escalating tensions have already begun to disrupt regional commerce and travel. Hong Kong-based airline operator Cathay Group announced on Saturday that it has suspended all operations in the Middle East, citing the heightened regional instability following the military strikes. This suspension affects both passenger flights to and from major hubs like Dubai and Riyadh, as well as freighter services operating through Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. As the parent company of Cathay Pacific Airways, Cathay Group stated it is actively re-routing flights that would typically pass over the affected airspace to ensure passenger and crew safety.
The Chinese government's dual approach—combining diplomatic calls for restraint with practical evacuation measures—highlights the serious nature of the crisis and Beijing's commitment to protecting its citizens abroad while advocating for peaceful resolution through dialogue and negotiation.
