Chinese government's Middle East envoy speaks after returning to Beijing: The Middle East is already chaotic enough, relevant parties should immediately cease military operations

Chinese Government Middle East Special Envoy Zhai Jun Holds Briefing in Beijing on July 23, Introducing Recent Middle East Situation and His Visit

Recently, Chinese Government Middle East Special Envoy Zhai Jun traveled through multiple Middle Eastern countries, meeting with foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Egypt, as well as the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League Secretary-General. He also had a phone call with Qatar’s Foreign Minister, engaging in in-depth discussions on regional issues, contributing to de-escalation and peace efforts.

China Condemns All Indiscriminate Attacks on Civilians and Non-Military Targets

Zhai Jun stated that efforts must be made to resolutely prevent the spread of the conflict. The ongoing fighting severely threatens regional security and stability, impacting global economic, energy, and shipping safety. China condemns all indiscriminate attacks on civilians and non-military targets.

The Middle East is Already in Chaos; Parties Involved Should Immediately Cease Military Actions

Zhai Jun emphasized that the scale, intensity, and duration of this war have surpassed those of last year. The Middle East is already chaotic enough; the region’s countries and people are currently most eager for peace and stability. Relevant parties should immediately stop military operations to prevent further escalation and avoid the situation becoming uncontrollable.

Firmly Oppose Unilateralism

Zhai Jun said that unilateralism must be firmly opposed. Strength alone does not equate to reason. The international community should jointly oppose any actions that violate international law and oppose the world reverting to a law of the jungle.

Our Diplomatic Mediation Will Continue as Long as the Conflict Persists

Zhai Jun noted that the conflict has entered its third week, causing over 21,000 casualties. The fighting has spread across the entire Middle East and has severely impacted global trade and the economy.

“As a responsible major country and sincere friend of Middle Eastern nations, China will maintain close communication and coordination with relevant parties, work to ‘put out the fire’ of tensions, pave the way for ceasefire, build bridges for dialogue, and make unremitting efforts to promote regional peace and stability,” Zhai Jun said. “As long as the conflict continues, our diplomatic mediation efforts will not stop.”

Temporary Travel Ban to Iran and Surrounding Countries

When asked about measures China is taking to protect local Chinese businesses and personnel, Zhai Jun said that after the escalation of the conflict, China immediately activated consular protection for Chinese citizens. He also reminded that the fighting is ongoing, and Chinese citizens are advised to temporarily avoid traveling to Iran and neighboring countries.

Safeguarding the Security of the Strait of Hormuz and Nearby Waters Serves the Common Interests of the International Community

Zhai Jun stated that the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters are vital international trade routes for goods and energy. Maintaining regional security and stability is a consensus of the international community and in everyone’s shared interests. He called on relevant parties to avoid escalating tensions, and China will continue to communicate with all sides to promote a ceasefire and de-escalation.

Parties Involved in the Conflict, Especially the U.S. and Israel, Should Cease Military Actions as Soon as Possible

A reporter asked: “Having just completed your visits across the Middle East and interacted with various parties, what do you see as the biggest obstacle to achieving a ceasefire?”

Zhai Jun responded, “The one who ties the bell must untie it.” Parties involved, especially the U.S. and Israel, should stop military actions as soon as possible and return to respecting international law and basic principles of international relations.

Source: CCTV News, Xinhua News Agency

Editor: Park Lina

Chief Editor: Wang Shanshan