China’s envoy to the United Nations expressed deep concern over the sharp escalation of tensions in the Middle East following the latest military strikes involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Addressing the UN, the Chinese representative stressed that all parties must abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and firmly oppose the use or threat of force in international relations. Beijing emphasized that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran must be respected, while voicing sorrow over reported civilian casualties. China underscored that the protection of civilians is a red line that must not be crossed and warned that indiscriminate use of force violates international humanitarian law. The envoy stated that military action is not a viable path to resolving disputes and cautioned that further escalation would only deepen instability across the region. Noting that strikes occurred during a period of diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran, China called the timing “shocking” and urged an immediate cessation of hostilities.