China urges de-escalation in Iran crisis and Afghanistan–Pakistan tensions

China has called for restraint and dialogue amid rising regional tensions, saying diplomatic efforts are needed to prevent further escalation in both the Iran crisis and the border clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

According to China’s Foreign Ministry, Wang Yi, the Foreign Minister of China, held a phone conversation with Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, to discuss recent developments.

During the call, Wang said the key to preventing further escalation in Iran lies in halting military operations by the United States and Israel. He said China does not condone attacks on Gulf states and strongly condemns strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

The discussion also addressed the recent clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Wang noted that China’s Special Envoy for Afghan Affairs is currently shuttling between the two countries to help promote dialogue and reconciliation.

He emphasized that the immediate priority is to prevent further escalation and ensure a swift return to negotiations between the two sides.