China Condemns Killing of Iranian Security Chief in Israeli Strike as 'Unacceptable'

Beijing. China strongly condemned the killing of Iranian National Security Chief Ali Larijani in an Israeli airstrike on Thursday, deeming the act 'unacceptable.' Although Beijing is an ally of Iran, it has also criticized Tehran's attacks on Gulf states hosting US military bases.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated at a press conference, "We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The killing of Iranian state leaders and attacks on civilian targets are even more unacceptable." He urged the relevant parties to immediately cease military action and prevent the regional situation from spiraling out of control.

Larijani was the highest-profile Iranian official to be killed since the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior figures died during the war that began on February 28. Following this incident, China has given special importance to the visit of its Middle East special envoy, Zhai Jun. He is attempting to mediate in the war by meeting with top officials in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Egypt.

According to spokesperson Lin, Zhai emphasized during his visit not to attack non-military targets and to ensure the security of shipping lanes. China stated it would continue its diplomatic efforts issued from Beijing and has decided to provide humanitarian aid to Iran, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq.