China Opposes "U.S. Interference in Internal Affairs"
U.S.-China Differences Highlighted as Iran Protests Spread Nationwide
As U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that he is considering "strong options" in response to anti-government protests in Iran, China has expressed its opposition to U.S. interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
At a regular press briefing on January 12, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated, "We have consistently opposed interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, and have always asserted that the sovereignty and security of all nations should be fully protected. We have also opposed the use of force or threats to use force in international relations."
Mao added, "We hope that all countries will do more to contribute to peace and stability in the region."
She made these remarks in response to a question about China's position on President Trump's suggestion of possible military intervention regarding the protests that have spread across Iran.
Previously, on January 11 (local time), President Trump said that he is taking the ongoing protests in Iran, now in their second week, very seriously and that the military is also monitoring the situation. He also mentioned that he is considering several strong options and will make a decision soon.
When asked about the Iranian regime's threats of retaliation, President Trump responded, "If they do that, we will strike them at a level they have never experienced before."
The protests in Iran, which began two weeks ago as demonstrations against economic hardship, have now escalated into a nationwide anti-government uprising.
According to the U.S.-based human rights organization Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 544 people, including eight children, have died in the protests so far. Of these, 496 were protesters and 48 were security personnel. Some analyses suggest that the death toll could exceed 2,000.
Spokesperson Mao stated that China hopes the Iranian government and its people will overcome the current difficulties and maintain national stability.
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