China has called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts to end the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The appeal came as fighting stretched into a third day, with rising fears of a broader regional crisis.
Israel and the United States have carried out strikes on Iran and Lebanon. As a result, tensions have spilled across neighbouring countries, raising concerns about wider instability.
Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the most urgent priority is an immediate halt to military operations. She stressed the need to prevent further escalation and spillover.
According to her, China supports resolving the crisis through dialogue and negotiation. In addition, Beijing and Moscow have urged the United Nations Security Council to hold an emergency meeting.
However, Mao said China was not informed in advance about the US military action.
Meanwhile, one Chinese citizen was killed in Tehran during the ongoing strikes. Mao confirmed the development but did not release further details.
She said the foreign ministry has instructed the Chinese embassy in Iran to assist the victim’s family. Therefore, officials are working to provide support on the ground.
Furthermore, Beijing has warned its citizens against travelling to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation. More than 3,000 Chinese nationals have already left the country.
As tensions mount, US President Donald Trump is expected to visit China from March 31 to April 2. The trip would mark his first visit to the Asian power during his second term.
When asked about the visit, Mao said both sides are maintaining communication regarding interactions between their leaders. However, she provided no additional details.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have vowed to launch what they described as the “most ferocious” operation against Israel and US bases in Gulf countries. Consequently, regional governments remain on high alert.
Iranian Drone Hits UK Base Runway In Cyprus
An Iranian drone struck the runway of a British military base in Cyprus on Monday. The incident has further heightened tensions linked to the growing US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said a Shahed unmanned aerial vehicle crashed into the British base in Akrotiri shortly after midnight. He confirmed that the attack caused minor material damage.
Britain Confirms Runway Strike
Britain’s Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, stated that the drone specifically hit the airport runway. She added that authorities have taken precautionary security measures.
However, she declined to provide further operational details. Officials are still assessing the full impact of the strike.
The targeted facility is the Royal Air Force Akrotiri, located near the southern coastal city of Limassol.
EU Pledges Solidarity With Cyprus
The European Union reacted quickly. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc stands firmly with its member states against any threat.
She emphasised that although Cyprus was not the intended target, the EU would maintain collective support and vigilance.
Cyprus Distances Itself From Military Action
President Christodoulides stressed that Cyprus does not intend to participate in military operations. He described the region as one facing serious geopolitical instability.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has allowed the United States to use British bases for defensive strikes against Iranian missile systems.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified that the UK was not involved in the initial strikes on Iran and would not join offensive operations. Nevertheless, he said Britain supports the collective self-defence of its allies as tensions continue to escalate.
