China condemns US attack on Iran, urges dialogue, end to hostilities

ISTANBUL

China on Sunday “strongly” condemned the US for its attacks on nuclear sites in Iran, urging all sides to engage in dialogue and put an end to hostilities.

“China strongly condemns the US attacks on Iran and bombing of nuclear facilities under the safeguards of the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency),” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement from Beijing.

“The actions of the US seriously violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and have exacerbated tensions in the Middle East,” the ministry added.

Beijing urged all parties involved in the conflict, “Israel in particular,” to agree to a cease-fire promptly, protect civilians, and engage in dialogue and negotiations.

Tensions in the region further escalated after US President Donald Trump announced Sunday that American forces carried out “very successful” airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites in Fordo, Natanz and Esfahan, amid growing fears of a broader conflict.

Following the US strikes, Iran called on the UN Security Council to convene an emergency meeting to condemn the attacks and hold accountable those who violate international law.

Hostilities broke out on June 13 when Israel launched airstrikes on several sites across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, prompting Tehran to launch retaliatory strikes.

Israeli authorities said at least 25 people have been killed and hundreds injured in Iranian missile attacks since then.

Meanwhile, in Iran, 430 people have been killed and more than 3,500 wounded in the Israeli assault, according to the Iranian Health Ministry.