China has sharply criticised the recent United States-led military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, warning that the assault has undermined Washington’s credibility and risks pushing the region into a wider conflict. The criticism was issued following a United Nations Security Council meeting on 22 June 2025.
According to China’s state broadcaster CCTV, Beijing is “deeply concerned” that the situation “may go out of control,” highlighting the potential for widespread escalation.
China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong delivered a strong message at the Security Council, calling on all parties to exercise restraint.
“The parties should restrain the impulse of force, avoid exacerbating conflicts and adding fuel to the fire,” said Fu.
He singled out Israel, urging it to “immediately cease fire to prevent the situation from escalating and avoid the spillover of war.”
The US strike, announced by President Donald Trump on Sunday, targeted several of Iran’s key nuclear sites.
Trump stated that American forces had “obliterated” facilities in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan in what he described as a “decisive and necessary operation.”
The military action marked the most significant Western attack on the Islamic Republic since Iran’s 1979 revolution, and was carried out with the backing of Israel.
The move has sparked a swift international response and prompted concerns over the implications for global security and nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
Ambassador Fu said Iran was undoubtedly hurt by the strikes, but also emphasised that the United States’ global reputation had suffered.
“The United States’ credibility was also damaged — both as a country and as a participant in any international negotiations,” he said.
In response to the escalating situation, China, along with Russia and Pakistan, submitted a resolution to the Security Council calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across the Middle East. The proposal seeks to de-escalate tensions and prevent further military engagements.
Chinese state media echoed the government’s stance, with commentary warning of the dangerous consequences of unilateral military action.
The Global Times described the US action as “extremely dangerous and provocative,” arguing that external military interference would never achieve peace, but instead would “deepen regional hatred and trauma.”
Separately, China’s embassy in Iran reported that most Chinese nationals had been safely evacuated from the country. It confirmed that those who remain are not located in areas considered to be at high risk.
China’s broader position reflects its vested interest in Middle Eastern stability. With a multi-billion-dollar economic relationship with Iran — including long-term oil imports and infrastructure projects — Beijing has significant incentives to maintain regional peace.
According to analysts cited by Time Magazine and the Financial Times, China is likely to continue promoting a diplomatic approach while avoiding direct military involvement.
Observers suggest that Beijing’s condemnation is part of a broader effort to position itself as a global stabiliser amid Western-led interventions.
As the situation develops, the Security Council’s next steps, including whether the proposed ceasefire resolution gains traction, will be closely watched.
The potential for further conflict raises fears of disruption to key trade routes and energy supplies, including through the Strait of Hormuz.
With the possibility of retaliatory action from Iran and wider military involvement by other powers, the international community faces a critical juncture in managing a crisis that could have far-reaching global consequences.
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