China on Monday strongly criticised Israel over its recent strikes on Iranian territory, calling them a violation of international law and a dangerous escalation at a time when diplomatic avenues remain open for resolving the Iranian nuclear issue.

In separate telephone conversations with the foreign ministers of Iran and Israel, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi denounced what he termed as “brutal attacks” carried out by Tel Aviv against Tehran, including strikes targeting senior Iranian officials and nuclear facilities.

Speaking to Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Wang Yi said that China “clearly opposes Israel’s violation of international law by attacking Iran with force, especially when the international community is still seeking a political solution to the Iranian nuclear issue.” He stressed that “force cannot bring lasting peace” and urged both parties to return to negotiations.

“The path of diplomacy has not yet been exhausted,” the Chinese foreign minister added, underscoring Beijing’s commitment to a peaceful resolution of disputes in the Middle East.

In his conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Wang expressed solidarity with Iran, stating that China “condemns Israel’s violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.”

He further reiterated China’s support for Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty and denounced Israeli strikes on nuclear facilities, warning that such actions “set a dangerous precedent that could have disastrous consequences for regional stability.”

The strong statement from Beijing comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to spiral following Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes against Israel under the ongoing “Operation True Promise III.” The conflict has already claimed at least 15 lives and left hundreds wounded in Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Haifa.

Israel’s targeted strikes on Iranian soil, which Tehran says killed high-ranking military officials and nuclear scientists, have drawn international concern over the potential for a wider regional war.

China’s remarks position it as a potential mediator in the rapidly escalating crisis. Beijing has previously played a key role in brokering diplomatic re-engagement between Iran and Saudi Arabia and has consistently advocated for multilateralism and dialogue in the region.