China Warns of Spillover of War as Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates

China‘s Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, warning of the potential “spillover of war” and its far-reaching implications for the global economy.

Given the strategic importance of the Gulf and surrounding waters as major international trade routes, Guo emphasized the need for the international community to take proactive measures to prevent the conflict from impacting global economic stability.

“The Chinese side urges the parties to the conflict to prevent the situation from escalating repeatedly, resolutely avoid the spillover of war, and return to the path of political resolution,” Guo stated, underscoring China’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.

He further called on the international community to make greater efforts to promote de-escalation and prevent regional instability from having a broader impact on global economic development.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has also weighed in on the conflict, expressing his deep worry over Israel’s military actions against Iran.

During a meeting with Uzbekistan’s President in Kazakhstan, Xi emphasized the need for urgent de-escalation, stating that “Israel launching military action against Iran has caused a sudden escalation in tension in the Middle East, China is deeply worried about this.” Xi reiterated China’s opposition to any acts that infringe upon the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of other countries.

The conflict has already led to significant developments, including the International Atomic Energy Agency’s assessment of damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities. The agency reported “direct impacts” on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz, highlighting the potential for long-term consequences on Iran’s nuclear program.

Meanwhile, the United States and Israel have traded barbs, with US President Donald Trump warning Tehran residents to evacuate and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserting that the strikes have set back Iran’s nuclear program by a “very, very long time”.

As the conflict continues to escalate, China is prioritizing the safety of its citizens in the region. The Chinese embassy in Israel has urged citizens to depart “in the direction of Jordan,” citing heightened security risks and damage to civilian infrastructure. Similarly, the embassy in Iran has advised Chinese nationals to leave the country “as soon as possible,” suggesting border crossings with Turkey, Armenia, and Turkmenistan as possible routes out.

Analysts have pointed out that China’s calls for de-escalation reflect not just diplomatic ambition but also concern over its own vulnerabilities, including energy dependence, strategic ties with Iran, and fears of a wider conflict that could undermine its investment and infrastructure footprint in the region.

China’s embassies in Iran and Israel have already evacuated hundreds of citizens, with over 1,000 more being relocated. According to reports, there are an estimated 1 million Chinese citizens in the Middle East, and their safety is a top priority for Beijing.

In light of these developments, China’s role as a potential mediator has come into focus. While Beijing has positioned itself as a global peacemaker, leveraging its success in brokering the Saudi-Iran rapprochement in March 2023, analysts believe that its influence over key players, particularly Israel, remains limited.

Nonetheless, China’s consistent calls for restraint and dialogue stem from both principle and pragmatism, reflecting its commitment to protecting its national interests and promoting regional stability.