China Criticizes U.S. Strikes on Iran, Warns of Escalation and Global Instability

New York, June 2025 – In the wake of U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, China has voiced strong concerns about the growing instability in the Middle East, warning that the situation risks spiraling out of control. During a tense emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, China’s Ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid aggravating the already volatile region.

Ambassador Fu criticized the use of force, cautioning that it could “add fuel to the fire” and further deteriorate regional and international security. “The impulse to use military power must be restrained,” Fu stated, emphasizing diplomacy as the only viable path forward. He specifically called on Israel to immediately cease hostilities, warning of the potential for conflict spillover that could destabilize neighboring countries and beyond.

The ambassador also expressed deep concern about the broader implications of the U.S. strikes, suggesting that Washington’s credibility has suffered a severe blow. “Iran has certainly been hurt, but the United States has also damaged its standing—both as a global leader and as a participant in international negotiations,” Fu remarked. The comments suggest that Beijing views Washington’s actions as undermining efforts toward peaceful conflict resolution and damaging global diplomatic norms.

Beijing’s reaction aligns with the joint resolution introduced by China, Russia, and Pakistan, urging the UN Security Council to call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across the Middle East. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV echoed these sentiments, warning that continued military operations could lead to a wider regional crisis.

As protests erupted outside the White House and global leaders voiced unease, China’s message was clear: restraint, not retaliation, must guide the international response. Beijing’s call serves as a reminder that the consequences of escalation could be severe and far-reaching.