• China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirms support for Iran amidst US-Israeli military actions.
• Iran promises to protect Chinese citizens in light of escalating conflict.
• Calls for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic dialogue from China to the US and Israel.
• Wang Yi urges Israel to halt military operations to prevent further escalation.
• China's strategic partnership with Iran strengthens during the conflict.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has expressed firm support for Iran's right to defend itself against US-Israeli strikes, emphasizing the need to uphold "sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity" during a recent phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. This conversation occurred amid escalating violence, with hundreds reported dead in Iran following the strikes which began on March 2. Wang condemned the US and Israel for "violating the purposes and principles of the UN charter" and urged them to cease military operations to avoid further conflict escalation, according to Channel News Asia.

In response to the ongoing crisis, Araghchi reassured Wang that Iran would take every measure necessary to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens situated within its borders. He indicated that Tehran's actions are crucial for defending itself given the backdrop of military aggression from the US and Israel. These assurances highlight the strategic partnership that has been forged between the two nations, particularly during times of increased hostilities, as noted by Al Jazeera.

China's engagement in the current situation also includes attempts to mediate peace. Following significant attacks on Iranian leadership, Wang underscored to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar during a call that military solutions are ineffective and called for an "immediate cessation of military operations." Wang's assertions reflect a consistent Chinese stance advocating for dialogue over force, aiming to ease tensions in the volatile region, as cited by South China Morning Post.

Additionally, Wang's dialogue with multiple foreign ministers highlights China's broader diplomatic strategy to safeguard its interests and maintain its influential role in the Middle East. By positioning itself as a peace advocate, China aims not only to bolster its relationship with Iran but also to counteract US unilateral actions that threaten regional stability, reinforcing its credentials as a global power, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.