Chinese Foreign Ministry Issues Statement
State-run Media Also Criticize U.S. Actions
China has condemned the United States' attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, labeling it as an illegal act.
On June 22, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on the ministry's website, declaring, "China strongly condemns the United States for launching airstrikes against Iran and attacking nuclear facilities under the supervision and management of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)." The spokesperson added, "This action by the United States is a serious violation of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law, and it escalates tensions in the Middle East."
The spokesperson went on to say, "China urges all parties to the conflict, especially Israel, to reach a ceasefire as soon as possible, ensure the safety of civilians, and initiate dialogue and negotiations." The spokesperson also stated, "China is willing to join forces with the international community, uphold justice, and work towards the restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East."
Earlier that day, the Chinese state-run English-language media outlet China Daily released an emergency commentary, stating, "The United States' unilateral military attacks targeting Iran's nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan are reckless escalations and clear violations of international law." The commentary emphasized, "Such unilateralism undermines the rules-based international order and sets a dangerous precedent that 'might makes right.'"
China Daily pointed out that Protocol I of the Geneva Conventions explicitly prohibits attacks on nuclear facilities due to the risk posed to civilians, and that the IAEA has consistently maintained that attacks on nuclear facilities violate international law and the UN Charter. The commentary further noted, "This attack occurred amid intensive diplomatic efforts to achieve a political resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue," and warned, "It is highly likely to derail the entire process aimed at a negotiated solution."
The outlet added, "While the U.S. attack may appear to help Israel reverse the situation, in reality it will only drive the situation deeper into a quagmire." It continued, "Further conflict will inevitably threaten peace and energy security, disrupt key maritime transport routes, and send shockwaves through the already fragile global economy."
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