BEIJING: China on Tuesday announced it will extend emergency humanitarian assistance to several Middle Eastern countries, including Iran and Lebanon, as the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel enters its third week and continues to escalate.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that the intensifying hostilities have triggered severe humanitarian conditions across the region. He emphasized that China’s aid initiative aims to support affected populations in Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iraq.
“The conflict has led to serious humanitarian consequences in multiple countries,” Lin said during a press briefing. “China has decided to provide emergency assistance to help ease the suffering of civilians impacted by the crisis.”
While Beijing maintains close diplomatic ties with Tehran, it has called on all parties to exercise restraint. China has urged the United States and Israel to halt military operations against Iran, while also expressing concern over Tehran’s retaliatory actions targeting Gulf states that host US military installations.
China has positioned itself as a potential mediator in the conflict. Its special envoy to the Middle East, Zhai Jun, recently held discussions with Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister, advocating for de-escalation and dialogue, according to AFP.
Meanwhile, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi reiterated that the conflict “should never have occurred” and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The announcement of humanitarian aid comes amid broader geopolitical tensions.
US President Donald Trump has reportedly postponed a scheduled visit to Beijing due to the ongoing conflict. Washington has also urged China to play a role in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route.
The strategic waterway, through which approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil supply typically passes, has been effectively blocked by Iran in response to recent US and Israeli strikes, raising concerns over global energy security.
China reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace and preventing further escalation, signaling continued diplomatic engagement as the situation unfolds.
